Paralegal- housing

Posted: May 2026

To Apply: Send cover letter and resume to Chandler Jones, HR Manager cjones@elderjusticeny.org

Location: Buffalo Office

Rate: Starting at $50,000 based on collective bargaining agreement pay scale

About CELJ: Center for Elder Law & Justice (CELJ) is a civil legal services organization fighting for justice, primarily for low-income older adults, in 10 counties in Western New York. Our attorneys stop illegal evictions, save clients homes from foreclosure, put a stop to elder domestic violence, fight for public benefits, work with our local immigrant & refugee populations, and represent grandparents and other kinship care relatives in custody and neglect petitions in family court. We also advocate for systems-wide policy changes, commenting frequently on changes to regulations and working with local elected leaders on legislation that will impact the poor and vulnerable older adults in our area. We believe that independence and dignity are the hallmarks of justice.

Job Summary: Reporting to the Staff Attorney, the Paralegal will be responsible for assisting their department to ensure that the firm represents clients in a holistic manner to achieve clients’ goals through aggressive advocacy. The Paralegal will work closely with the Supervising Attorney and Staff Attorney as well as support staff to develop and implement the firm’s mission and goals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Manage a caseload of housing, landlord/tenant clients

  • Assist attorneys at court, as needed

  • Conduct client meetings.

  • Draft court documents for attorney review

  • Maintain timely and consistent client contact and up to date records

  • Provide training, community outreach, and education to individuals and local community-based organization, and other advocates

  • Coordinate and collaborate with other groups and organizations

  • Represent the civil practice and legal aid in the community

  • Promote the work of the office and civil practice

 ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

  •  Travel is required

  • In-home client visits, as needed

  • Community outreach presentations are required

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s Degree or Paralegal Certificate

  • 1-3 years of experience

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Strong written and oral communication skills

  • Demonstrated research and analytical skills

  • Strong attention to detail, well organized and accurate

 CELJ offers competitive benefits and compensation package, including:

  • Generous vacation and sick time

  • Employer covered health, dental & vision

  • Fourteen holidays a year, plus two half-day holidays

  • Summer hours between Memorial Day and Labor Day

  • Payment of license fees and association dues

  • Encouragement of professional development

  • Eligible for Federal Loan Forgiveness

    CELJ is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Employer recruits without regard to sex, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity, and all candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. CELJ services are open to all older adults in Western New York.