Application Guide

How to Apply for Legal Assistant

at Civil Survival Project

🏢 About Civil Survival Project

Civil Survival Project is a unique nonprofit led by and for system-impacted people, combining direct legal services with grassroots organizing and policy advocacy. Working here means being part of a movement to end mass incarceration and restore rights to those harmed by the criminal legal system.

About This Role

As a Legal Assistant, you will directly support attorneys in helping formerly incarcerated individuals overcome legal barriers to reentry—such as clearing criminal records and reducing court debts. Your work will enable clients to access housing, employment, and other opportunities, making a tangible difference in their lives.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with checking emails and case management updates, then conducting client intake calls to assess reentry barriers. You'll spend time preparing and filing legal documents (e.g., motions to vacate), coordinating with courts, and updating case files. Afternoons often involve supporting attorneys with research or logistics for upcoming mass assistance days.

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🎯 Who Civil Survival Project Is Looking For

  • Has lived experience with the criminal legal system (preferred) or strong familiarity with reentry barriers and court processes.
  • Proficient in legal document preparation, e-filing, and case management systems (e.g., LegalServer, Asana).
  • Exceptionally organized, able to juggle multiple client cases and deadlines with meticulous attention to detail.
  • Comfortable with remote work and using collaboration tools like Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and Adobe Acrobat Pro.

📝 Tips for Applying to Civil Survival Project

1

Highlight any experience with criminal record clearance, LFO relief, or vacating convictions—even if volunteer or pro bono.

2

In your resume, use specific metrics (e.g., 'Managed 50+ client intakes per month' or 'Filed 200+ legal documents').

3

Tailor your cover letter to show alignment with the mission: mention why restoring opportunity to system-impacted people matters to you.

4

If you have lived experience, consider briefly sharing how it informs your work (only if comfortable).

5

Mention any familiarity with LegalServer or Asana in your skills section, as these are specifically preferred.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for criminal justice reform and reentry work, linking it to Civil Survival's mission.", 'Your organizational skills and experience managing high-volume case files and deadlines.', 'Your technical proficiency with legal software and document preparation.', 'How your background (lived or professional) prepares you to support formerly incarcerated clients with empathy and efficiency.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read about Civil Survival's advocacy campaigns, such as the Washington Recovery of Opportunity Coalition.
  • → Review Washington State's laws on vacating convictions and reducing LFOs (e.g., HB 1550).
  • → Familiarize yourself with the concept of 'legal financial obligations' and their impact on reentry.
  • → Look at Civil Survival's website and social media to understand their client-centered, organizing approach.
Visit Civil Survival Project's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Why are you interested in working specifically with formerly incarcerated individuals on reentry legal barriers?
2 Describe your experience with case management systems. How do you stay organized with multiple deadlines?
3 How would you handle a client who is frustrated or upset about their case progress?
4 Tell us about a time you had to prepare and file a complex legal document. What steps did you take?
5 What do you know about Washington State's laws on vacating convictions or legal financial obligations?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't use jargon or legal terms incorrectly—be precise or ask for clarification.
  • Avoid being overly formal or distant; this role requires empathy and connection with clients.
  • Don't overlook the 'preferred' qualifications—if you lack lived experience, emphasize your commitment to the mission and relevant skills.

📅 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 Survival Project!

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