Disability Rights Paralegal - Social Security Focus

Illinois Legal Aid Online; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 57,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement contribution

Generous paid vacation, holidays, andS

Sick time

Job summary

Uptown People’s Law Center (UPLC) in Chicago seeks a disability rights paralegal to support the Social Security disability program and the InReach initiative for incarcerated individuals preparing for release. The role involves managing medical record requests, summarizing records with attorneys, and maintaining client communications, including intake and ongoing contact.

In addition to the Social Security duties, the paralegal may assist with administrative tasks and training of interns.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required.
• Formal paralegal training is a plus, but not required.
• Strong reading comprehension, writing ability, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to understand and adhere to professional standards (e.g., client confidentiality).
• Flexibility in daily functions; familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Adobe required.

Responsibilities

• Manage all medical record requests for every Social Security case, including documenting requests, following up with facilities, tracking payments, and submitting records.
• Summarize records with attorneys; assist in preparing briefs based on summarized records; conduct medical/legal research as needed.
• Serve as primary contact for Social Security clients; conduct intakes, assist with client onboarding, and maintain regular client contact.
• Maintain contact with Social Security Administration regarding client claims; frequent communication with adjudicators and field office representatives; take careful notes.

Skills

Reading Comprehension

Writing

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Attention to Detail

Deadlines

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Paralegal training (plus, not required)

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

Adobe

Job description

Uptown People’s Law Center (UPLC) in Chicago seeks a disability rights paralegal to support the Social Security disability program and the InReach initiative for incarcerated individuals preparing for release. The role involves managing medical record requests, summarizing records with attorneys, and maintaining client communications, including intake and ongoing contact.

In addition to the Social Security duties, the paralegal may assist with administrative tasks and training of interns.