Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Maryland Legal Aid (MLA) provides life-changing civil legal assistance to eligible residents in every part of the State. Since 1911, MLA has provided high-quality legal services to low-income, and marginalized individuals and communities–helping them remedy their civil legal issues and become empowered to overcome challenges, achieve stability and independence, and an overall better life.

MLA is dedicated to preserving the basic human needs and basic human rights of clients, particularly as they navigate the justice system. MLA staff, pro bono attorneys, community partners, and general supporters all play important roles in ensuring that the legal playing field is leveled so that those most in need achieve equal access to justice. It is because of this diverse support that MLA is able to be a voice to tens of thousands of economically disadvantaged and vulnerable Marylanders every year.

Job Summary

Law Clerks, under the supervision of a licensed attorney, gain exposure to the challenges and opportunities of providing civil legal services to those most in need; learn about basic policies and procedures of legal practice, office administration, and non-profit management; learn how to complete administrative forms, organize and provide supporting documentation; practice and apply basic interviewing techniques to conduct client intakes, including methods to develop trust with clients, ensure complete disclosure, and identify sensitive issues; tracks policy changes; conducts legal research; files and mails relevant documents; assists with special research or other projects; and other tasks as assigned. Professional development opportunities provided through this internship include training in civil law and cultural competency, networking opportunities with community partners in the local area, and more. 

  Qualifications:

• A junior or senior college/university student or a law school student; all majors will be considered.
• Prior experience and/or interest in working with low-income populations. 
• Prior experience and/or interest in law or providing non-profit civil legal services. 
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• An interest in dispute resolution and legal advocacy. 
• Ability to work independently and as a team member in a fast-paced, cross-cultural environment with a diverse client base. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and web-based applications. 
• Ability to work within an office environment and regularly interact via in-person, telephone, videoconference, IM, and email.

Duration:  

The Fall Law Clerks will begin on August 26, 2024, and conclude on 12/20/2024. Maximum of 15 hours per week for ten weeks during the Fall semester.

Spring Law Clerks will begin on January 13, 2025 and conclude on April 25, 2025. Maximum of 15 hours per week for ten weeks during the Spring semester.

Compensation:   $17- $19 per hour. Applicants may receive credit for service completed through their school program. 

Application Requirements:

• Please submit a resume, academic transcripts, legal writing sample, and a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications with your online application. 
• References will be required at the time of the final interview. 
• No telephone calls, please. The position will remain open until filled.

Maryland Legal Aid is committed to equity, justice, and inclusion. As an equal opportunity employer, MLA seeks to hire individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives that are reflective of the communities we serve, including people with disabilities, people of color, women, and members of traditionally underrepresented groups.

Anyone interested must apply via an online application.

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