Thank you for your interest in GBLA!

Applications are currently being accepted for the following position:

Bilingual Paralegal

Minimum Qualifications for Bilingual Paralegal

• Three (3) years of paralegal experience preferred with emphasis on family law.
• Must be proficient in Word with ability to learn case management and other relevant software.
• Must communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Experience and sensitivity serving GBLA’s client population, including victims of domestic violence and their children.
• Knowledge of various legal documents and their uses; filing procedures and legal terminology; legal office practices and procedures; and court forms and procedures.
• Ability to collect and examine factual data; understand and apply basic legal principles and precedents; draft letters, pleadings and other legal documents; and make logical presentations of statements of fact.
• Must maintain current CDL and automobile insurance and be willing to travel throughout Kern County to conduct outreach, intake, and education services as outlined within the assigned project’s description.
• Must be bilingual (English/Spanish).

Duties and Responsibilities for Bilingual Paralegal
Under the supervision of an Attorney, the Paralegal will:

• Serve as first point of entry for victims of domestic violence and their children.
• Conduct intake and check for Violence Against Women (VAWA) eligibility and other eligibility criteria.
• Prepare Safety Plan with victim and children, immediately upon contact.
• Conduct follow-up interviews and family stability assessments with clients on a regular basis.
• Prepare the Temporary Restraining Order Petition.
• Request service of Temporary Restraining Order, including follow-up with Sheriff or Process Server.
• If VAWA eligible, prepare VAWA, U-Visa or T-Visa declaration and petition; assist in the collection of documents and police clearance records; prepare work authorization applications and/or extensions of deferred action status; track status of immigration case online; and assist clients whose immigration petitions were granted with other ancillary issues, such as obtaining social security numbers and diver’s license.
• Counsel and negotiate on routine matters under the direct supervision of an Attorney.
• Prepare and type memorandums, letters, standard legal documents and pleadings.
• Conduct basic and routine factual investigation and legal research within a defined framework.
• Participate/assist in administrative hearings, and carry a caseload.
• Develop good working relationships with other community-based organizations in order to facilitate appropriate referrals.
• Maintain and update a database of community resources available to serve victims of domestic violence and children subjected to child abuse.
• Work from other locations outside of the home office.
• Interpret/translate for clients in a variety of situations.

To submit an application for Bilingual Paralegal, submit cover letter, legal writing sample, resume, and three professional references to:

Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance, Inc.
Attn: HR Department
615 California Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93304