Brief Description of the Organization: The Legal Aid Society is a trusted, well-respected private law firm providing civil legal assistance to indigent residents of Orange County. We have a long-standing tradition of partnership with the private bar. We work closely with other local non-profits, and we collaborate statewide to provide access to justice.
Program Description: Are you committed to justice and driven by compassion? Then join the legal heroes at Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association, Inc. (LAS), the private not-for-profit law firm defending rights daily! LAS provides civil legal assistance to indigent residents of Orange County. We are a client-centered organization committed to providing a full range of high-quality legal representation and advocacy primarily in areas of economic development, family law, consumer, and housing law. Fight for justice one case at a time.
Position Description: This position requires 2 years- plus of family law litigation experience but is a non-litigating role with little to no personal caseload. Provide brief advice to clients on family law matters and procedural questions for clients to complete pro se pleadings, file, and move their case along in court. Participate in the client intake and case acceptance process, outreach events, and prepare and present pro se advice clinics on family law matters such as dissolution, paternity, and custody. Act as a training resource for other staff in substantive areas of family law, including with motion practice and in hearings. Learn basic housing law and small claims rules and procedures to advise clients in these areas in limited capacities. Participate in the firm’s community education program by speaking with grateful community groups, agency staff, and potential clients about LAS services. Develop professional ties by participating in local and statewide work groups to promote justice for our clients. This is a part-time position requiring three days per week, worked entirely in person at the Orange County courthouses. THIS is the reason you went to law school.
Skills/Qualifications: 2 years or more of substantial family law experience is REQUIRED. Those with little to no hearing experience will not be considered. Good communication skills; ability to work constructively with others in a teamwork setting; good judgment; strong organizational capability; ability to work independently and under pressure. Strong written and verbal skills; an ability to multi-task; proficient in Microsoft Word and Outlook; an ability to learn and work in a customized electronic case management system. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Portuguese, or Haitian-Creole preferred but not required.
Benefits: Compensation begins at $54,000 per year and based upon litigation experience, plus bonuses and salary adjustments. EXCELLENT benefits worth substantial additional financial value.
- Part-time schedule, ONLY THREE DAYS PER WEEK on-site at the Orange County courthouses!
- $10,000 per year tax-free student loan reimbursement for attorneys IN ADDITION TO annual salary
- Ability to apply for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
- Mid-year salary adjustments to reward staff dedication
- Employee assistance program (paid by employer)
- 403b employee investment retirement plan
- 14 paid holidays and additional leave that quickly accrues
- Leave carryover of up to 350 hours, based on seniority
- LAS pays Bar dues, CLE credits, and local bar association membership
- Opportunities for upward mobility into leadership/more advanced roles
Time Requirement: LAS office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 am until 5:00 pm. This is a part-time position requiring three days per week, worked entirely on-site at the Orange County courthouses, with scheduling coordinated around courthouse hours.
Start Date: Immediate.
Closing date: When filled.
Required Background Check: This position requires a level 2 background check. Please visit the following link to read more: https://info.flclearinghouse.com.
Application Process: Submit resume, one-page description of litigation experience, three professional references, writing sample, and a cover letter detailing your interest in the position to Executive Assistant Mandy Silvestris. We are an equal opportunity employer.
License/Certification: Florida Bar license (Required)
Ability to Commute: Orlando, FL 32801 (Required)
Work Location: On-site at the Orange County courthouses, Orlando, FL
Pay: From $54,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Employee assistance program
- Loan forgiveness
- Paid time off
Experience:
- family law: 2 years (Required)
Language:
- English and Spanish, Portuguese, or Haitian-Creole (Preferred)
License/Certification:
- Florida Bar license (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Orlando, FL 32801 (Required)
Work Location: In person
