Case Handler - Community Justice Advocate

utahlegalservices; Salt Lake City (UT); Hybrid; USD 83,097,000 - 97,424,000; Full time

Job summary

Utah Legal Services seeks a Case Handler to join our team. You will assist with case management, document preparation, client communications, and advocacy for qualifying Utahns facing housing-related issues.

You will work directly with clients to gather information, maintain electronic case files, and ensure compliance with program requirements. This role operates under supervision and emphasizes ethical legal services for low-income individuals and families.

Qualifications

• Current certified Community Justice Advocate (CJA) or Licensed Paralegal Practitioner (LPP).
• Must pass a Utah criminal background check.
• Experience in housing law preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple cases, deadlines, and priorities.

Responsibilities

• Guide clients through case processes, including filings and appeals.
• Maintain electronic case files and update case status in systems.
• Coordinate with attorneys, staff, and clients to ensure timely progress.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to a positive work environment.
• Travel to meetings and court proceedings as needed.
• Support community outreach and legal clinics to increase access to justice.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

CJA Certification

LPP Certification

Background check required

Job description

Job Summary

Utah Legal Services seeks a Case Handler to join our team. In this role, you will assist with case management, document preparation, client communications, and advocacy services for qualifying Utahns facing housing-related legal issues. As a member of our team, you will work directly with clients to gather information, answer questions, maintain electronic case files, and ensure compliance with program requirements. When permitted within the scope of your certification or licensure, you will provide ethical and competent legal services and advocacy to low-income individuals and families. All duties will be performed under the supervision of the Managing Paralegal and, when appropriate, a supervising attorney.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Client Advocacy and Support

• Guide clients through the duration of their cases, including court filings, administrative applications, and appeals, if applicable.
• Prepare and file court and administrative agency documents within the scope of your certification or licensure and under attorney supervision when required.
• Engage in active team building and create a positive work environment.
• Participate as a member of the hiring committee as requested by the HR Director.
• Provide coaching and mentoring to staff, as invited by management.
• Maintain regular communication with clients, attorneys, court personnel, mediators, and other parties involved in a case.
• Respond to client questions and provide updates regarding case status and next steps.
• Accurately update case status, tasks, and client communications in LegalServer.
• Participate in team meetings that support collaboration, legal skills development, and professional growth.
• Contribute to a positive and supportive team environment.

Case Management

• Attend meetings, mediations, hearings, trials, and other court or administrative proceedings as permitted by your certification, licensure, and applicable court rules.
• Utilize LegalServer to track time, manage client matters, monitor deadlines, and document services provided.
• Follow ULS case handling protocols, professional standards, and best practices.
• Maintain an average caseload of 60-120 cases, depending on case complexity, level of service provided, and other assigned responsibilities.
• Regularly review case status and upcoming deadlines and take appropriate action to ensure timely progress.
• Review cases for compliance with Case Service Report (CSR) requirements and properly close cases when representation concludes.
• Meet regularly with supervising attorneys to review case progress and identify legal issues requiring attorney involvement.

Additional Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations and partners that support ULS's mission.
• Attend ULS staff meetings and required trainings.
• Complete applicable continuing education requirements, including CLEs and certification-related training.
• Participate in community outreach, legal clinics, educational presentations, and other activities designed to increase access to justice.
• Assist with volunteer-supported projects and programs as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Current certified Community Justice Advocate (CJA) or Licensed Paralegal Practitioner (LPP).
• Must be able to pass a Utah criminal background check.
• Prior legal experience preferred, particularly in housing.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple cases, deadlines, and competing priorities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and sound professional judgment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with attorneys, staff, clients, community partners, and volunteers.

Job Factors/Physical Requirements

• Must be able to travel to meetings and court proceedings as needed.
• Must be able to sit for extended periods of time.
• This position follows a hybrid work model, with a minimum of one day per week in the office and may work from either the SLC, Ogden, or Provo office.

Hourly Rate: $29- $34 DOE

FLSA Status: This is a full-time, exempt position.

Benefits

At Utah Legal Services, we prioritize the well-being and success of our employees, recognizing that a harmonious work-life balance is paramount. We empower our team members to tailor their schedules with flexible hours, allowing them to effectively manage their professional commitments while nurturing personal and familial needs. In our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, we embrace a hybrid or remote work across all positions.

Moreover, we understand that comprehensive benefits are essential in fostering a thriving workplace culture. That's why we offer an extensive benefits package, including:

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employer-paid vision insurance
• Generous paid-time off (21 days per year) and increases on your first anniversary
• 13 paid holidays
• 403(b) retirement plan with a monthly employer match, plus automatic monthly contributions
• Employer-paid short and long-term disability coverage
• 4 weeks paid parental leave
• Employer monthly stipend to assist staff with benefit cost.

By prioritizing employee well-being, offering competitive benefits, and embracing a flexible work environment, we strive to create a workplace where every team member can thrive both personally and professionally.

To learn more about Utah Legal Services visit www.utahlegalservices.org

Utah Legal Services believes that equal opportunity of all employees is important for the continuing success of our organization. In accordance with state and federal law, this nonprofit will not discriminate against an employee or applicant for employment because of race, disability, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or veteran status in hiring, promoting, demoting, trainings, benefits, transfers, layoffs, terminations, recommendations, rates of pay, or other forms of compensation.