Paralegal

JOB POSTING

Position Title:    Paralegal

Practice Area/Department:    Tenant Defense Project

Office Location(s):    Utica, NY

Hours:    35 Hours per week

Salary Range:    $49,950.00- $55,566.00 (DOE)

Supervisor:    Supervising Attorney, Adam Matteson, Esq.

Posting Date:    March 6, 2026

Application Deadline:    Until position is filled

About

The Legal Aid Society of Mid-New York, Inc. (LASMNY) is a non-profit public interest law firm that provides free legal information, advice and representation to people who are unable to afford a lawyer. Our staff provides services in thirteen counties: Broome, Chenango, Cayuga, Cortland, Delaware, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, and Otsego. In addition, our Agricultural Worker Program (AWP) provides services to agricultural workers throughout New York State.

Mission Statement

LASMNY’s mission is to provide free legal assistance to low-income individuals facing civil legal issues that impact basic needs such as housing, safety, income, and healthcare. We are committed to protecting the rights of vulnerable populations including seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, immigrants, and survivors of domestic violence.

Job Summary

The Paralegal will work closely with attorneys, primarily on landlord-tenant cases, to provide legal support and advocacy for individuals and families facing homelessness. Key responsibilities include preparing and reviewing legal documents, conducting client interviews, performing case research and investigations, and offering administrative assistance. The Paralegal will also be responsible for filing and retrieving pleadings from local courts, as well as traveling to support intake and outreach events. A strong understanding and commitment to LASMNY's mission and values of justice are required.

Essential Job Functions

• Coordinate and maintain schedules for hearings, court appearances, and related deadlines.
• Conduct applicant screenings in the office and at offsite clinics and courts, gather documentation, and determine eligibility for legal services.
• Interview clients and witnesses, collect relevant facts, and assist in investigating claims.
• Assist attorneys with case preparation, including legal research, drafting legal documents and memoranda (within ethical and legal guidelines), and filing documents with local courts.
• Participate in outreach initiatives, including educational sessions with tenant groups, prospective clients, courts, and community organizations.
• Collect and input case data into the case management system; maintain accurate paper and electronic files.
• Record billable time promptly and accurately in the case management system.
• Work effectively and professionally with colleagues, judges, opposing counsel, court personnel, and community partners.
• Travel to courts, clinics, and community events as needed.
• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Adhere to all Legal Services Corporation (LSC), OTDA, and LASMNY policies, procedures, and grant reporting requirements.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned to meet agency needs. 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, paralegal certificate, or an equivalent combination of relevant work experience.
• Prior work experience, preferably in a legal setting.
• Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team and maintain strong attention to detail.
• Strong advocacy skills, including the ability to communicate effectively and persuasively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work with families in crisis with empathy and professionalism.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software, and familiarity with computerized legal research tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with housing services or legal aid is preferred but not required.
• Candidates with lived experience of displacement or housing instability are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Bilingual or multilingual a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

LASMNY offers a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. Salary is commensurate with experience, and a comprehensive benefits package is provided, including health insurance, retirement contributions, paid leave, and professional development opportunities. Annual salary starts at $49,950.00 for recent graduates and up to $55,566.00 for paralegals with five years of relevant experience.

Application Process

Qualified candidates are invited to apply through our online application system. Click on the following link to apply: https://workforcenow.adp.com. 

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

LASMNY provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities during the application process. Please contact Human Resources to request assistance.