Applications close 19 July
The Paralegal will provide support to QAI’s Advocacy Practices and administration team, under the supervision of the chief Operating Officer and Principal Solicitor. The Paralegal will provide a high standard of information, referral and assessment to clients and organisations contacting QAI and is responsible for undertaking a wide range of client and administrative support duties. We seek a compassionate professional who thrives under pressure and excels in a fast-paced environment.
The position is full time on a fixed-term contract commencing from August 2024. The role falls under the Social, Community, Home Care & Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHDS Award) and will be paid at Level 4.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Accept referrals from relevant stakeholders and take bookings for client advice appointments and/or for representation matters.
- Manage QAI’s advocates’ calendars, including booking client advice appointments and representation matters.
- Open client files, including performing intake and taking initial client instructions, entry into the client management database, preparation of electronic files and opening file correspondence.
- Provide support to QAI’s advocates for various matters including assisting with follow up with relevant stakeholders, tribunals, courts and clients as required.
- Assist with QAI’s pro bono volunteer solicitor matters as directed, including preparing briefs and liaising with clients and relevant stakeholders.
- Close client files, including liaising with the client post advice or representation and preparation of closing file letter and completing close file procedures to finalise client matters.
- Provision of information and referral in relation to enquiries for assistance.
- Answering telephones and emails and assisting with client intake across QAI’s Advocacy Practices.
- Perform relevant aspects of legal and practical research as required.
- Preparation of submissions, court documents and legal correspondence under the supervision of the Principal Solicitor and QAI advocates.
- At times, provide extended assistance to clients within the scope of QAI’s Advocacy.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Essential
- Strong commitment to human rights, social justice and diversity
- Experience as a paralegal, or experience in office administration in a legal environment
- Strong computer competency and proficient in the use of Microsoft Office 365 including, word, excel and outlook
- Attention to detail and highly developed organisational skills to identify priorities, manage workload, and maintain records within a resource-poor community legal service.
- Willingness to undergo a criminal history screening.
Desirable
- Lived experience of disability.
- Previous experience at a Community Legal Centre and/or with the Community Legal Assistance Services System (CLASS), would be advantageous
- Experience working with people with mental health impairments or disability.