Legal Advocate

Legal Staff Advocate I or II

Full-Time (32 hours/week) | Onsite in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, and Hollister Starting

Pay: $25.86/hour

Reports to: Supervising Attorney

*we are also open to part time applicants*

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About Senior Legal Services

Since 1972, Senior Legal Services has been providing high-quality, free legal help to older adults in Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties. We work to protect the rights of our clients—helping them secure quality healthcare, maintain independence, protect their housing, and live free from discrimination based on age or disability.

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Make a Difference Every Day

Imagine walking into work knowing that your efforts will help protect someone’s housing, secure their healthcare, or ensure they are treated with dignity. At Senior Legal Services, you’ll join a passionate team dedicated to defending the rights of older adults in our community. Your work will have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of people who need it most.

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What You’ll Do

As a Legal Staff Advocate, you’ll play a key role in delivering legal services and supporting our attorneys.

Your responsibilities will include:

· Managing your own caseload

· Identifying and reporting any potential conflicts of interest

· Interviewing and screening clients to understand their needs

· Conducting legal research and investigations

· Drafting legal documents and correspondence

· Supporting attorneys and paralegals with case preparations

· Assisting with community outreach and training activities

· Contributing to office decisions, policies, and team operations

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What We’re Looking For

Required Skills & Experience

· Strong computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace)

· Proficiency with Excel

· Excellent attention to detail and strong written/verbal communication skills

· Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience in a law firm or legal aid setting

· Experience working with clients in crisis, including those with mental health concerns or trauma

· Commitment to serving older adults, people with disabilities, and other disadvantaged communities

· Bilingual in English & Spanish (strongly preferred)

· Comfortable representing the organization in the community

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Physical Requirements

This position involves sitting, standing, and walking for extended periods, lifting up to 15 lbs, and working closely with colleagues in shared office space.

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Why You’ll Love Working Here

· Be part of a mission-driven team serving a vulnerable population

· Work in a collaborative, respectful environment

· Make a direct impact on people’s lives every day

· 4-day work week

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Our Commitment to Diversity

We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected status.

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How to Apply

Send your resume and cover letter to resume@seniorlegal.org with the subject line: Legal Staff Advocate Application – [Your Name]

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

We’re Hiring: Legal Staff Advocate I or II Santa Cruz, Watsonville, or Hollister

Starting at $25.86/hour | 32 hrs/week Onsite | Non-exempt

Join Senior Legal Services and help protect the rights of older adults in our community. You’ll work directly with clients, assist in legal proceedings, and make a tangible difference every single day.

What we offer: Mission-driven work that matters Supportive, collaborative team Direct impact in people’s lives

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What we’re looking for:

· Strong computer & communication skills

· Legal aid or law firm experience (preferred)

· Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred