Legal Assistant jobs in Washington

Kitsap Legal Services (KLS) is a non-profit organization that provides free legal services to low-income individuals in Kitsap County, Washington.

KLS is looking for a highly motivated, outgoing, detail-oriented, and organized person to join our team. The key to success in this role is managing a high level of responsibility and a desire to help with an expedited sense of urgency. This position supports two attorneys representing low-income clients in all phases of the eviction process.

JOB DUTIES:

• Complete intakes with clients and maintain legal files and records using KLAS’s case management system.
• Prepare and edit correspondence, legal pleadings and other documents independently and consistent with attorney instructions.
• Assist in filing pleadings, recording documents, and arranging service of process.
• Assist in client communication, fact development, legal research, and community outreach/education where appropriate.
• Support attorneys in all aspects of litigation including, but not limited to, filing affirmative litigation, discovery, working with experts, trial, etc.
• Manage litigation and office calendars.
• Coordinate client/ interpreter/attorney scheduling, communicate regularly with advocates and clients, and assist attorneys with work related to community engagement and/or legal clinics.
• Perform investigative work (research facts, gather discovery, access data bases etc.) as requested.
• Maintain a professional working relationship with clients and the community.
• Complete other clerical/administrative/office tasks as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

· AA Degree (or equivalent schooling) or higher and 2 or more years of legal assistant experience

or 5 years of experience in lieu of education.

· Experience working with low-income clients preferred.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Possess strong organizational/time management skills: successfully manage multiple duties/tasks and deadlines and prioritize work.
• Produce work with the highest level of accuracy and detail.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet last-minute deadlines.
• Take initiative and have the ability to problem solve effectively and independently.
• Possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge of Washington State court rules, and Kitsap County Superior Court procedures and local rules; or a willingness to learn these procedures and rules.
• Intermediate/advanced computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel and Outlook and be open to learning new software applications.
• Basic knowledge and ability to use the technological resources available in the courts and justice system in Washington State (JIS, Odyssey, etc.).
• Use and operate office machines such as copiers, scanners, and phones (including answering systems), etc. effectively.
• Demonstrate cultural competence and sensitivity in working with diverse clients, communities, and colleagues.
• Manage stress and work calmly under pressure.
• Experience supporting attorneys in all aspects of litigation.
• Ability to work within a team environment and to work independently.
• A valid Washington driver’s license and insurance. Some local travel in own vehicle may be required.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience with unlawful detainer procedures and/or Washington landlord/tenant law.
• Exposure to and comfort working with interpreters.
• Experience supporting the work of multiple attorneys at the same time.
• Spanish fluency preferred.

A letter of interest, resume’, and three professional references will be required to be considered.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $23.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Customer Service: 2 years (Preferred)
• Legal: 2 years (Required)
• Microsoft Office: 2 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Bremerton, WA 98337: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person