Legal Support Specialist | Victoria (57533)

Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) seeks a Legal Support Specialist to support TRLA’s efforts to provide free legal services to clients across a variety of practice areas, which may include Housing, Immigration, Public Benefits, Employment, and Family.  This is an in-person position at the assigned Victoria office location.

TRLA is one of the largest legal aid providers in the country and is nationally recognized for its high-quality, zealous, client-centered advocacy. With experts in over 45 civil practice areas, TRLA is uniquely equipped to deliver holistic legal services to address clients' interconnected needs. TRLA also collaborates directly with local agencies and community partners to reach the most vulnerable members of our client population. TRLA attorneys and advocates are part of a community of frontline advocates across Southwest Texas delivering much-needed legal assistance to clients in metropolitan areas and also underserved rural and border communities.

The Legal Support Specialist provides comprehensive administrative and case support assistance to attorneys, paralegals, and program staff. This position blends legal support, client-facing responsibilities, and operational coordination to ensure effective service delivery, accurate reporting, and smooth day-to-day office operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with case-related activities, including preparing standard pleadings, legal documents, and routine correspondence as requested.

• Conduct client intakes, including eligibility, conflict checks, and substantive interviews in person, by phone, and in community settings.

• Interview clients and witnesses; conduct follow-up on assigned cases, including fact investigation and basic legal research as directed.

• Maintain accurate, complete, and timely client files, applications, and administrative records, including data entry into client databases.

• Schedule hearings, depositions, clinics, and other legal appointments; coordinate calendars and case deadlines.

• Prepare legal educational material.

• Serve process and subpoenas as assigned.

• Notarize legal documents.

• Provide general case support to attorneys by assisting with case file organization and maintenance, tracking deadlines and appointments, coordinating hearings and meetings, and facilitating communication with clients, courts, and opposing parties as directed.

• Maintain accurate records, case files, and administrative documentation in accordance with organizational policies.

• Prepare required internal reports and documentation related to case activity and office operations.

• Handle incoming and outgoing mail; ensure timely distribution and preparation of correspondence.

• Answer the organization’s general telephone line and route calls or provide assistance and support as requested.

• Maintain office files, equipment, and supply inventory; monitor routine equipment and supply needs and requisition supplies or equipment as necessary.

• Assist with overflow work to ensure smooth office operations.

• Assist with trust and petty cash accounts-related administrative tasks as assigned.

• Translate documents and provide oral interpretation between English and Spanish as needed.

• Communicate professionally with clients, attorneys, staff, courts, and community partners.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the branch or office manager to support program and office needs.

• Support the orderly operation of the office by monitoring workspace conditions, identifying maintenance or safety needs, and coordinating appropriate follow-up with the Office or Branch Manager.

• Bilingual in English and Spanish, with strong verbal, reading, and writing skills in both languages.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree or additional education or training in legal studies, social services, or a related field preferred.

• Experience in legal services, administrative support, case management, or project coordination preferred.

• Ability to type a minimum of 45 words per minute and proficiency with word processing.

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, client-centered environment.

• Willingness to work occasional evenings or attend community-based events as required.

• Ability to travel occasionally.