Job Description

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

SMALL CLAIMS ADVISOR

Location: San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles Courthouses

Position Type: Non-Exempt

Schedule: Part-Time, 20 hours per week

Reports to: Supervising Legal Assistant

About SLOLAF:

San Luis Obispo Legal Assistance Foundation (SLOLAF) is a non-profit legal aid organization with a mission to provide legal services and resources to people in need. For decades, we’ve served low-income residents, seniors, veterans, disabled adults, and other vulnerable populations, regardless of immigration status. With a staff of 12 full-time employees and several volunteers, and offices in San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles, we provide free legal assistance to SLO County low-income residents in the areas of housing (eviction defense, unsafe housing, etc.), domestic violence restraining orders, elder abuse restraining orders, conservatorships and guardianships of the person, and senior legal services.

We are committed to fostering a healthy work-life balance, encouraging professional development, and maintaining an equitable and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We received the 2025 Diamond Level Family Friendly Workplace Award from the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce.

Position Summary

The Small Claims Advisor provides neutral, accurate, and accessible guidance to self-represented litigants seeking assistance with small claims matters. Services are delivered in person, via Zoom, by phone. The Advisor also participates in weekly virtual clinics in collaboration with law students from the San Luis Obispo College of Law. This position requires strong communication skills and excellent customer service. Bilingual English–Spanish proficiency preferred.

This is a new SLOLAF position funded by a grant from the California State Bar in partnership with the San Luis Obispo Superior Court. The position does not require a law license as legal advice will not be provided. Paralegals, legal assistants, law students or others with a background and interest in law are encouraged to apply.

Essential Functions

• Provide neutral information on small claims procedures, court forms, timelines, and general legal processes.
• Assist litigants in English and Spanish across all service channels, including in-person, Zoom, phone, and email.
• Manage appointments through the Court’s online self-calendaring system and accommodate walk-in assistance.
• Conduct weekly small claims clinics via Zoom or phone with participation from SLO College of Law students.
• Maintain accurate customer notes, records, and referral documentation.
• Participate in weekly check-in’s with SLOLAF’s Supervising Legal Assistant and follow established office procedures and service guidelines.
• Uphold neutrality, confidentiality, and professionalism in all interactions with the public.
• Receive training on proper completion of small claims documents and ultimately be responsible for conducting pro se document review to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Work cooperatively with the Small Claims Court Commissioner and court filing clerks, who will provide feedback when errors are identified.

Desired Skills & Qualifications

Required:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain legal processes clearly and patiently.
• Ability to provide calm, neutral, and supportive assistance to individuals from diverse backgrounds and with limited legal knowledge.
• Comfort using technology including Zoom, email, digital document tools, and online appointment systems.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred:

• Fluency in English and Spanish (spoken and written).
• Experience working in legal services, court settings, or self-help environments.
• Familiarity with small claims procedures or general civil legal processes.
• Experience coordinating with interpreters or working in multilingual service settings.

Salary & Benefits

· $25 - $35/hour depending on experience

· Paid vacation time: Starts at 5 days per year for half-time position, increases after two years

· Paid sick leave: 40 hours per year

· Paid holidays

· Simple IRA retirement plan with a guaranteed 2% of gross pay contributed by SLOLAF each pay period and capacity to make additional pre-tax deductions from your paycheck.

· Cell phone allowance of $25 per month

To apply :

· No calls please

· Email cover letter (required) and resume, in PDF format, to SLOLAF Human Resources at hr@slolaf.org

Position is available immediately and posting will remain open until filled.

At SLOLAF, a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace is one where all clients, employees and volunteers feel valued and respected, regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education, or disability. We are committed to a nondiscriminatory approach and provide equal opportunity for employment and advancement in all our departments and programs.

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