Illinois Legal Aid Online

Early Resolution Program Paralegal - Center for Disability & Elder Law

CHICAGO, ILPosted 30+ days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from Illinois Legal Aid Online

  • Job overview

    The Early Resolution Program Paralegal at Illinois Legal Aid Online supports the Center for Disability & Elder Law by assisting low-income seniors and people with disabilities in resolving eviction and consumer debt disputes through a countywide initiative.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The paralegal will interview candidates, conduct client intakes, draft documents for attorney review, support attorney correspondence, track case progress, and perform other assigned duties to help self-represented litigants.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The salary range is $46-50K depending on experience, with full-time status and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance, plus generous personal time off.

  • Experience and skills

    Required experience includes direct client services; preferred experience includes consumer debt and landlord-tenant disputes, familiarity with the Cook County Legal Aid program, and Spanish language skills. Strong organizational, detail-oriented, adaptable, and client engagement skills are essential.

  • Work environment and culture

    The organization values diversity, equity, and inclusion, supports underrepresented communities, and fosters a welcoming, empowering environment for staff and clients alike.

  • Company information

    Illinois Legal Aid Online's Center for Disability & Elder Law is a 501(c)(3) legal aid organization founded in 1982, serving over 3,000 clients annually with a focus on legal issues for older adults and persons with disabilities in Chicago and Cook County.

  • Job location and travel

    The position is based in Chicago, IL at the Center for Disability & Elder Law with a hybrid work model combining remote and in-person work.

  • Unique job features

    This role is part of a collaborative countywide initiative involving multiple legal aid organizations and court systems to assist self-represented litigants in housing and consumer debt disputes.

Company overview

Illinois Legal Aid Online (ILAO) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free legal resources and tools to individuals in Illinois who cannot afford legal representation. Established in 2001, ILAO uses technology to bridge the justice gap by offering self-help legal guides, automated forms, and a directory of legal aid services, enabling users to address issues such as housing, family law, and employment. The organization generates funding through grants, donations, and partnerships with legal aid providers and community organizations. Known for its innovative approach, ILAO has been recognized for its commitment to improving access to justice and empowering underserved communities.

How to land this job

  • Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience with direct client services, especially in consumer debt and landlord-tenant disputes, aligning with the Early Resolution Program's focus at Illinois Legal Aid Online.

  • Highlight your organizational skills, adaptability, and ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines, as these are critical for supporting CDEL attorneys and tracking case progress effectively.

  • Apply through multiple channels including Illinois Legal Aid Online's official career page and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility and increase your chances of being noticed.

  • Connect on LinkedIn with staff members in the Center for Disability & Elder Law division; initiate conversations by referencing your shared commitment to social justice or asking about their experience working with marginalized populations.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'direct client services,' 'consumer debt,' 'landlord-tenant disputes,' 'case management,' and 'legal aid,' ensuring your application passes automated screenings.

  • Utilize Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate tailored applications, discover multiple application portals, and identify relevant LinkedIn connections, allowing you to focus your energy on preparing for interviews and networking.

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