Justice Referral Advocate
Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP)
Statewide | Hybrid Position
About the Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project
The Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to providing pro bono civil legal services for low‑income Mainers. Through partnerships with volunteer attorneys, courts, and community organizations, VLP advances access to justice across the state. Our work is grounded in collaboration, accountability, and a commitment to high‑quality service delivery.
Position Overview
The Justice Referral Advocate plays a central, trusted role within the Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project, supporting access to civil legal services by coordinating pro bono referrals, administering and supporting VLP’s legal clinics, and serving as a key connective position across the organization.
This is a high‑responsibility, hybrid role that combines clinic coordination, referral and case management, and client advocacy work. The Justice Referral Advocate is responsible for ensuring that clinics and referrals operate smoothly and volunteer attorneys are well supported. The role requires excellent judgment, professionalism, accountability, and discretion, as it involves handling confidential and sensitive client, attorney, and organizational information.
Regular in‑person work is expected in our Portland office, with in‑person expectations adjusted based on the individual’s location. VLP has a preference for candidates located in, or with strong ties to, Northern Maine, though applicants from across the state will be considered.
Job Responsibilities and Duties
·Clinic Coordination and Operations
oServe as primary staff responsible for the coordination and day‑to‑day operational support of VLP’s limited‑scope legal clinics, both remote and in person
oCoordinate clinic logistics, including scheduling, client readiness, attorney participation, and day‑of operations
oFacilitate in-person and remote clinics as needed, including managing meeting access and logistics
oSupport and assist in developing VLP’s Community Justice Workers pilot
oSupport and assist in developing programming for the Justice Andrew Mead Fellowship
oDevelop, refine, and maintain clinic workflows, systems, and documentation to support consistency, efficiency, and high‑quality service delivery
oWork collaboratively with attorneys and other staff to support clinic capacity, quality, and growth
·Client Scheduling, Advocacy, and Communication
oSchedule appointments and send confirmations by email, text, and phone
oPrepare clients for appointments by obtaining case status, relevant documents, and background information and confirming client questions in advance
oServe as a primary point of contact for clients regarding clinic participation and referral status
oRespond to client questions related to process, timing, and next steps (non‑legal)
oFollow up with clients after clinics or referrals as needed to support appropriate case movement
·Volunteer Attorney Coordination and Support
oCoordinate communications with volunteer attorneys, including schedules, confirmations, and provision of relevant client information and documents
oSupport the VLP Legal Team in recruiting volunteer attorneys and maintain ongoing relationships
oSupport volunteer attorney engagement, retention, and a positive pro bono experience
oSet up attorney volunteer profiles in VLP’s case management system and resolve access issues as needed
·Pro Bono Referrals and Extended Representation
oManage and administer VLP’s Extended Representation Program and other pro bono referral initiatives
oPrepare and track referrals for limited and extended representation
oConduct regular case status checks with volunteer attorneys
oObtain case closing information and ensure timely and accurate closure of cases
oCoordinate with staff attorneys as needed to support appropriate case placement and movement
·Case File and Data Management
oMaintain accurate case records in VLP’s case management system, including case data entry, attorney pro bono time, and case outcomes
oConduct regular reviews of open cases to ensure timely and efficient processing and prioritization consistent with VLP procedures
·Organizational Collaboration and Support
oWork closely and collaboratively with staff across the organization, including staff attorneys, intake staff, operations staff, and leadership
oServe as a key connective role, supporting coordination, communication, and workflow across teams
oDevelop and maintain partnerships with courts, community organizations, social service agencies, and other partners throughout Maine
oAssist with general operations as needed, including intakes, data cleanup, trainings, events, and coverage for team members
oAttend remote and in‑person staff meetings and other organizational activities
oPerform additional duties as assigned
Role Expectations: Responsibility, Confidentiality, and Accountability
This position carries a high level of responsibility and trust. The Justice Referral Advocate is expected to:
·Handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and integrity
·Work independently while remaining accountable for timely follow‑through and results
·Exercise sound judgment and escalate issues appropriately
·Communicate clearly, proactively, and professionally with clients, attorneys, partners, and colleagues
·Take ownership of assigned work and contribute to a strong, collaborative team culture
Work Hours and Location
·Full‑time position (40 hours per week), exempt and not eligible for overtime
·Some evening hours required, particularly to support evening clinics
·Hybrid role with regular in‑person work expected (in-person expectations adjusted based on individual location--advocates from outside Southern Maine are strongly encouraged to apply)
·Reliable high‑speed internet and confidential workspace required for remote work
·Some in‑state travel may be required
Compensation
The anticipated salary range for this position is $57,000–$62,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Seeking a minimum of 3+ years’ experience in nonprofits, legal organizations, community organizing, or similar.
Candidates who are licensed attorneys or who hold a Juris Doctor (JD) may be considered for compensation above this range, depending on experience, credentials, and organizational need.
Benefits
VLP offers a comprehensive benefits package, subject to eligibility requirements and the terms of applicable plans and policies, including:
·Paid Time Off (PTO)
PTO accrues beginning on the employee’s start date at a rate equivalent to approximately 200 hours per year.
·Paid Holidays
VLP recognizes U.S. national and regional holidays and notifies employees annually of observed holidays. VLP's offices are closed and the organization provides paid leave for an additional 2 weeks annually.
·Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
VLP pays 100% of the premium for single‑subscriber health, dental, and vision coverage. For eligible spouse and/or dependent coverage, VLP pays 50% of the additional premium.
·Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
Available to eligible employees enrolled in VLP medical coverage, subject to plan terms.
·Life Insurance and Disability Insurance
Employer‑paid life insurance and short‑ and long‑term disability coverage.
·Wellness Benefit
·Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
·Retirement Plan
Participation in a SIMPLE IRA, with employer matching contributions of up to 3% of annual salary, subject to plan terms and IRS regulations.
·Professional Development Support
Supervision
The Justice Referral Advocate reports to the Managing Attorney and participates in regular supervision, performance reviews, and goal‑setting discussions.
Note
This job description reflects the evolving needs of the Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project and may be modified over time.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. VLP believes that diverse perspectives strengthen the legal profession and enhance our ability to serve our clients effectively. If you are passionate about justice and equity, we encourage you to apply and join us in making a meaningful impact.
