Application Guide

How to Apply for Intake Specialist - Part-Time

at Civil Justice Inc.

🏢 About Civil Justice Inc.

Civil Justice Inc. is a nonprofit that expands legal access for low- and moderate-income Marylanders through innovative programs and a network of attorneys. Working here means directly contributing to social justice and making legal help accessible to those who need it most. The remote, part-time structure offers flexibility while allowing you to make a tangible impact.

About This Role

As an Intake Specialist, you'll be the first point of contact for Marylanders seeking legal assistance, screening them for eligibility and connecting them to resources. Your work ensures that limited legal services reach those most in need, and you'll support in-house programs with research and client interviews. This role is critical in bridging the gap between underserved communities and legal aid.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your day starts by checking the intake queue and returning calls or emails from Marylanders seeking legal help. You conduct phone or video interviews to screen applicants, document their cases, and determine eligibility for CJ's programs or refer them to partner organizations. Between intakes, you may assist attorneys with legal research or case investigations, updating records in the case management system.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Civil Justice Inc. Is Looking For

  • You have completed or are enrolled in a certified paralegal program, giving you foundational legal knowledge.
  • You understand civil legal issues like housing, family law, and consumer rights, and can compassionately interview clients in distress.
  • You communicate clearly and empathetically, both verbally and in writing, and can explain legal processes to non-lawyers.
  • You're tech-savvy with Microsoft Office and web-based platforms, and can handle a remote workflow independently.

📝 Tips for Applying to Civil Justice Inc.

1

Highlight any paralegal training or coursework in civil law, even if not yet certified, to show your legal foundation.

2

Emphasize remote work experience or self-discipline, as this is a fully remote role requiring independence.

3

Tailor your resume to include specific examples of client intake, interviewing, or referral work in legal or social services.

4

In your cover letter, mention your understanding of Maryland's legal aid landscape or low-income communities.

5

Double-check that you meet the Maryland residency requirement (implied by serving Marylanders) and note it in your application.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your passion for civil justice and helping low- and moderate-income Marylanders.', 'Your paralegal training or coursework and how it prepares you for client screening and legal research.', 'Your ability to handle sensitive client interviews with empathy and professionalism.', 'Your comfort with remote work and proficiency with the required technology.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Explore Civil Justice Inc.'s website to understand their in-house programs (e.g., consumer law, housing) and referral network.
  • → Read about Maryland's legal aid landscape, including other organizations like Maryland Legal Aid, to see how CJ fits in.
  • → Review common civil legal issues facing low-income Marylanders, such as eviction moratoriums or family law changes.
  • → Check CJ's news or blog for recent successes or initiatives to reference in your interview.
Visit Civil Justice Inc.'s Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you interviewed someone in a difficult situation; how did you show compassion?
2 How do you prioritize tasks when handling multiple intake requests simultaneously?
3 What experience do you have with civil legal issues like eviction, custody, or debt collection?
4 How do you ensure accuracy when screening clients for eligibility criteria?
5 Why are you interested in working for a nonprofit legal aid organization specifically?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Failing to show empathy or appearing dismissive of clients' legal problems during the interview.
  • Not demonstrating knowledge of civil legal services or confusing them with criminal law.
  • Underestimating the need for self-motivation in a remote, part-time role without direct supervision.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Civil Justice Inc.!

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