PARALEGAL

Available Position: Public Benefits Paralegals
Background: The Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago (LAF), a not-forprofit corporation, is the principal provider of free civil legal services to poor and elderly persons in Cook County. LAF has more than 90 attorneys and 30 paralegals who work in five neighborhood offices in low-income communities and in a Loop office. In addition, LAF has many special projects focusing on housing, immigration, family law, public benefits, consumer protection, elder law, nursing home residents' rights, and other poverty law issues.

Position: LAF seeks multiple paralegals to work with individuals and families who live in Chicago and may be eligible for one or more of the public benefit "safety net" programs, including TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), All Kids and Family Care Health Insurance, Medicaid, Food Stamps, and Transitional Assistance.

Responsibilities: The paralegals will work out of City of Chicago Community Service Centers and Workforce Centers located throughout Chicago. Under the supervision of LAF attorneys, the paralegals will screen individuals and families, assist individuals and families in applying for public benefit programs for which they may be eligible, and provide follow-up services and referrals where appropriate. Responsibilities include developing knowledge of the public benefit programs available, interviewing and obtaining necessary information from clients, and assisting with the preparation and submission of applications and other forms. In addition, paralegals will conduct some outreach and community education in the communities where the City of Chicago offices are located.

Qualifications: Applicants must have a college degree, excellent oral and written skills, and a commitment to social justice. A background in working with low-income populations, the elderly or people with disabilities is helpful. Spanish fluency is a plus. Basic internet and computer skills are required, including familiarity with such programs as MS Word, Word Perfect, Outlook, and Excel. Good organizational and case management skills are essential. Familiarity with public benefit programs is desirable, but not required.

Salary: Salary depends on experience. Generous fringe benefits.

To Apply: Send cover letter, resume, and two references, by e-mail, by June 29, 2009 to:

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