Legal Assistant

Legal Assistant – Legal–Behavioral Health Integration Project (LBHIP)

Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Position Type: To be determined
Compensation: Based on experience

About the Program

The Legal–Behavioral Health Integration Project (LBHIP) is an interdisciplinary program that provides legal advocacy and support to individuals experiencing serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI), particularly those involved in the criminal legal system.

Working in collaboration with the Missouri State Public Defender and community behavioral health providers, LBHIP helps individuals navigate complex legal, psychiatric, housing, and social service systems.

Position Overview

LBHIP is seeking an organized, dependable, and detail-oriented Legal Assistant to support the program’s legal and administrative operations.

The Legal Assistant will work directly with the program’s attorney to assist with case preparation, client communications, legal documentation, scheduling, and coordination with courts and community service providers.

This position offers an opportunity to gain experience in a unique practice that integrates civil legal advocacy, behavioral health, and social services.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, format, file, and organize legal documents, correspondence, pleadings, and other case materials.
• Maintain electronic client files and case management records.
• Assist with tracking deadlines, scheduling appointments, and maintaining the attorney’s calendar.
• Communicate professionally with clients, courts, attorneys, treatment providers, and community organizations.
• Assist with gathering records, obtaining documentation, and preparing materials for legal proceedings.
• Conduct basic legal and administrative research as directed.
• Support applications and documentation related to public benefits, housing, and other client needs.
• Assist with coordinating client appointments, meetings, and follow-up communications.
• Maintain accurate records of program activities and services.
• Provide general administrative support for the program’s daily operations.

Qualifications

Required:

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize competing deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Outlook, and Excel.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information professionally.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Professional, respectful approach to working with individuals experiencing mental illness, disabilities, and other significant challenges.

Preferred:

• Previous experience as a legal assistant, paralegal, or in a law office.
• Familiarity with Missouri courts, legal terminology, and filing procedures.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing serious mental illness or involvement in the criminal legal system.
• Familiarity with legal case management software.
• Experience in nonprofit, public interest, legal aid, or social service settings.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is resourceful, compassionate, organized, and comfortable working in an environment where legal and human service needs frequently overlap.

We are looking for someone who takes initiative, communicates clearly, follows through on assignments, and understands the importance of treating every client with dignity and respect.

Why Join LBHIP?

This position provides an opportunity to participate in an innovative model of legal services that addresses challenges extending beyond the courtroom.

The Legal Assistant will gain exposure to civil legal advocacy, behavioral health systems, public benefits, housing and placement coordination, and interdisciplinary collaboration while supporting meaningful work with underserved individuals.

Pay: $25.02 - $30.13 per hour

Expected hours: 15.0 – 20.0 per week

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: Remote