Paralegal - Second Chance Project

Paralegal - Second Chance Project

Career Opportunity: Paralegal – Second Chance Project with The Ohio Justice and Policy Center in Cincinnati, Ohio. Are you passionate about expanding opportunity for people impacted by the criminal legal system? Do you believe access to record relief and second chances can transform lives, families, and communities? If so, we want you to join our team.

As a Paralegal, you will support direct legal services for individuals with criminal records by assisting attorneys with client representation, legal clinics, community outreach, and case management. This role is ideal for someone who is organized, client-focused, and enjoys legal research, community engagement, and direct client interaction while helping individuals overcome barriers to employment, housing, licensing, and opportunity created by criminal records.

In addition, as the Paralegal you will:

• Support direct client representation under the supervision of OJPC attorneys by collecting client information, reviewing case histories, conducting research, and assisting with case preparation.
• Assist with Second Chance Legal Clinics, including client intake, document preparation, interviews, fact gathering, and litigation support activities.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with clients to support ongoing engagement and communication throughout the legal process.
• Participate in community outreach, presentations, and trainings that educate individuals and organizations about legal remedies available to people with criminal records.
• Connect clients with community resources and referral partners to address legal and non-legal needs.
• Maintain accurate client records, case files, and data within OJPC's case management system.
• Assist with data tracking, reporting, and administrative support related to program operations and funding requirements.

Qualifications:

• Associate degree and 1-2 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Paralegal certificate, bachelor's degree, or legal research training preferred.
• Strong research, writing, organization, and communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with legal case management software preferred.
• Experience with public speaking, community outreach, or client-facing work preferred.
• Knowledge of barriers faced by individuals with criminal records and a commitment to expanding access to opportunity.

The Ohio Justice & Policy Center creates fair, intelligent, and redemptive criminal justice systems through zealous, client-centered advocacy, innovative policy reform, and cross-sector community education. Founded in Cincinnati in 1997, OJPC is a statewide nonprofit law office focused on reducing incarceration, improving conditions inside prisons, and expanding freedom and opportunity for people with criminal records.

Salary range: $45,000-$55,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

Competitive benefits package includes 27 PTO days, 13 paid holidays, and an annual winter break between Christmas and New Year's.

Join our dedicated team and help expand access to second chances across Ohio. Apply online today!

Employer is EOE/M/F/D/V. No third-party candidates please.