Paralegal

Position Title:    Intake Paralegal

Practice Area/Department:    HelpLine

Office Location(s):    Utica, NY

Hours:    35 Hours per week

Salary Range:    $49,950.00 – $55,566.00 (DOE)

Supervisor:    Supervising Attorney, Danielle Martell, Esq.

Posting Date:    May 13, 2026

Application Deadline:    Until position is filled

About

The Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York, Inc. (LASMNY) is a non-profit public interest law firm providing free civil legal assistance to low-income individuals facing issues that impact basic needs such as housing, safety, income, and healthcare. We serve a thirteen-county region in Central New York, including Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, and Otsego counties. Our Agricultural Worker Program (AWP) serves agricultural workers throughout New York State. We are committed to protecting the rights of vulnerable populations, including seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, immigrants, and survivors of domestic violence.

Job Summary

The Intake Paralegal serves as a first point of contact for individuals seeking civil legal assistance through the CNY Legal HelpLine, a joint project with Legal Services of Central New York. The position handles a high volume of calls from across our 13-county service area, screens applicants for eligibility, opens cases, makes referrals, and supports attorneys and staff with intake-related work. Occasional travel for in-person intake at outreach events and offsite locations may be required.

Essential Job Functions

•    Handle a high volume of incoming calls and online applications from applicants seeking civil legal assistance.

•    Conduct applicant screenings, gather relevant information and documentation, and determine eligibility for legal services.

•    Open and maintain accurate intakes and case records in the case management system.

•    Make referrals to appropriate legal services providers, community organizations, and other assistance programs as needed.

•    Assist attorneys and staff in providing legal assistance to eligible applicants.

•    Prepare follow-up correspondence and maintain accurate electronic and paper files.

•    Maintain updated referral resources and information for community partners and service providers.

•    Travel to outreach events, clinics, and offsite locations to conduct in-person intake when necessary.

•    Work effectively and professionally with clients, colleagues, courts, and community organizations.

•    Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, trainings, outreach events, and professional development opportunities.

•    Maintain regular and reliable attendance.

•    Adhere to all LASMNY policies, procedures, grant requirements, and professional standards.

•    Perform other responsibilities as assigned to meet agency needs.

Required Qualifications

•    One or more years of public-facing experience in a customer service, social services, or legal environment

•    Familiarity with Microsoft Office environment (Word, Excel, etc.) and ability to input data efficiently into databases;

•    Excellent written and verbal communication skills;

•    Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team;

•    High standards of professional integrity and strict adherence to client confidentiality;

•    Strong organizational, time-management, and problem-solving skills;

•    Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities.

Preferred Qualifications

•    Paralegal certification or Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., paralegal studies, criminal justice, human services, or social work) preferred. 

•    Demonstrated commitment to serving low-income persons with prior experience in legal services or similar programs;

•    English/Spanish bilingual preferred;

•    Prior office experience, preferably in a legal environment;

•    Knowledge and understanding of the legal problems and needs of low-income communities.

Compensation and Benefits

LASMNY offers a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. Salary is commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package is provided, including health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, and professional development opportunities. Annual salary starts at $49,950.00 for recent graduates and up to $55,566.00 for paralegals with five years of relevant experience.

Application Process

Qualified candidates are invited to apply through our online application system at https://workforcenow.adp.com.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

LASMNY provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities during the application process. Please contact Human Resources to request assistance.