Legal Assistant - Tri-Cities (Kennewick, WA)

The Northwest Justice Project (NJP) is a not-for-profit law firm with a mission of Combatting Injustice Strengthening Communities Protecting Human Dignity. NJP secures justice for people in or near poverty through high quality legal advocacy that promotes the long-term well-being of low-income individuals, families and communities through legal representation, community partnerships, education and other advocacy. NJP’s Tri-Cities office, located in Kennewick, seeks a full-time, experienced legal assistant to assist attorneys who primarily work in the areas of family law, housing, and consumer issues. NJP seeks a qualified applicant committed to supporting our mission through the work of Tri-Cities office. This is a full-time position.

JOB DUTIES:

Prepare and edit correspondence, legal pleadings, and other documents independently and consistent with attorney instructions.

Maintain legal files and records.

Manage litigation and outreach calendars.

Assist in filing pleadings, recording documents, and arranging service of process.

Assist in client communication, fact development, computer-assisted legal research.

Assist in community outreach/education.

Coordinate attorney scheduling.

Maintain a professional working relationship with our clients and the community.

Perform assigned clerical/administrative/other office tasks.

Answer multi-line computer phone system as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Working knowledge of federal, state, and local rules and procedures, or ability to read, understand and follow the rules and procedures.

Possess good organizational/time management skills: successfully manage multiple duties/tasks, deadlines, and prioritize work.

Demonstrate intermediate/advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, and Outlook and be open to learning new software applications.

Use and operate office machines such as copiers, scanners, fax machines, etc. effectively.

Be accurate and detail-oriented.

Possess strong oral and written communication skills.

Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity in working with diverse clients, communities, and colleagues.

Must have transportation to travel to Columbia, Garfield and Asotin Counties

Ability to work both within a team environment and independently.

Bilingual Spanish/English preferred, but not required.

Familiarity with state and federal benefit programs such as DSHS and SSA is preferred.

Familiarity with the communities in the Tri-Cities is preferred.

NJP has an organizational commitment to fight racism and to incorporate equity and inclusion in both the work we do and work environment we create. All staff are expected to uphold this commitment and approach their role with a desire to learn and grow in this area.

Salary Range: Starting salary is based upon years of experience, starting at $23.29 per hour. This is a non-exempt position. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, which includes 100% paid employee health premiums and significant premium shares for family health premiums, as well as generous time off.

Hours of work: 9:00 – 5:00, Monday through Friday.

To Apply: Submit a letter of interest and current resume to Human Resources at resume@nwjustice.org. Cover letter and email subject line should clearly reference “Legal Assistant – Tri-Cities”. Cover letter should include description of any past experience, personal or professional, with low income or other marginalized communities. The Northwest Justice Project is especially interested in qualified candidates whose professional, personal and/or service experience allow them to contribute to and support the legal aid community’s commitment to race equity.

Application Deadline: September 28, 2020

NJP is committed to a policy of equal opportunity and fosters an environment free of barriers and discriminatory practices. NJP actively promotes mutual respect, acceptance, teamwork and productivity. NJP is committed to maintaining an organization whose staff, Board and clients are diverse in background, experience, race, color, national origin, gender, age, religious reference, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sensory, mental or physical abilities, veteran status, and other qualities that strengthen the program while reinforcing its commitment to basic fairness. People of color, people who identify as transgender, lesbian, gay, or bisexual, and those with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals needing a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process or for more information about the project should contact the Human Resources Department by calling (206) 464-1519.