KENNY BAHENA
Chicago
Summary
Dynamic paralegal with extensive experience at CARPLS Legal Aid, specializing in legal research and client management. Proven ability to enhance office efficiency and support veterans through effective document drafting and volunteer coordination. Bilingual in Spanish and English, adept at fostering strong client relationships and navigating complex court procedures.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Paralegal, IL-AFLAN Hotline & Domestic Relations Advice Desk
CARPLS Legal Aid
Chicago
01.2016 - Current
- Helped develop and launch the statewide IL-AFLAN hotline providing free legal assistance to veterans, service members, and eligible families.
- See clients in person (Spanish- and English-speaking) at the Domestic Relations Help Desk at the Richard J. Daley Center, assisting with intake, form completion, and procedural guidance.
- Built and maintained a referral network connecting callers and walk-in clients with additional legal and community resources.
- Conduct legal research, monitor updated laws, and prepare reports for the Legal Director.
- Conduct and document client intake interviews; accurately maintain case information within internal systems.
- Provide Spanish–English translation support for case presentations and client interactions.
- Improved records management workflows to increase office efficiency and service quality.
- Coordinate and support volunteers, ensuring proper onboarding documentation and schedule accuracy.
Part-Time Paralegal
CARPLS Legal Aid
Chicago
06.2015 - 08.2015
- Supported attorneys in case preparation within a fast-paced legal environment.
- Assisted at the legal help desk at the Richard J. Daley Center.
Intern
CARPLS Legal Aid
Chicago
06.2015 - 08.2015
- Conducted client intake interviews and gathered information for case records.
- Assisted paralegals and attorneys with research and administrative support.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Paralegal Studies
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, ILAssociate of Applied Science - Paralegal Studies
Oakton Community College
Skokie, ILSkills
- Legal research and writing
- Client intake and case management
- Veteran and military legal issues
- Document drafting and translation
- File management and organization
- Volunteer coordination
- Court procedures
Timeline
Paralegal, IL-AFLAN Hotline & Domestic Relations Advice Desk
CARPLS Legal Aid
01.2016 - Current
Part-Time Paralegal
CARPLS Legal Aid
06.2015 - 08.2015
Intern
CARPLS Legal Aid
06.2015 - 08.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Paralegal Studies
Loyola University Chicago
Associate of Applied Science - Paralegal Studies
Oakton Community College