Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Joseph Frankus

VALPARAISO,IN

Summary

Results-driven advocate with professional experience in education, law, and community activism. Proven track record of enhancing student opportunities and personal growth through effective communication, empathy and individualized tailored strategies for success. Demonstrated collaboration skills with school administrators, counselors and stakeholders. A passionate advocate who is dedicated to improving educational and personal outcomes for our students in order to optimize their success at Valparaiso Community Schools and beyond.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience

Work History

Student Advocate

Valparaiso Community Schools
08.2016 - Current
  • Implement school district policies and procedures for the Section 504 program and expulsions and related disciplinary matters .
  • Provided in person and online training for administrators, school counselors and staff.
  • Strengthened communication between parents, students, teachers, and administrators by facilitating annual 504 meetings to discuss student progress and concerns.
  • Empower students to make informed decisions regarding their education by discussing vocational opportunities, career and post secondary school options, and information about supported decision making.
  • Evaluate the Section 504 and expulsion and related disciplinary protocols to identify what can be improved to better serve our students.
  • Connect students with resources related to school success, career options, post secondary educational choices, enlistment, and community medical contact information.

Attorney at Law

Law Office of Joseph A. Frankus
03.2014 - 08.2016
  • Directed the Kaplan Bar Review Course for students at the Valparaiso University School of Law.
  • Facilitated client meetings to thoroughly understand their legal needs and strategize appropriate solutions.
  • Provided legal advice and representation in primarily civil matters pertaining to civil rights, housing matters, consumer fraud and guardianships.
  • Negotiated favorable settlements for clients by effectively communicating legal strategies and potential outcomes.
  • Assisted clients in estate planning by preparing powers of attorney, living wills, and other relevant documents.

Attorney at Law

New Mexico Public Defender Department
03.2013 - 03.2014
  • Managed a high caseload effectively, prioritizing cases based on urgency and complexity.
  • Participated in community outreach programs to educate citizens about their legal rights and options.
  • Attended continuing education seminars and workshops to stay current on developments in criminal defense law and practice.
  • Collaborated with the managing attorney and colleagues to enhance my overall effectiveness in representing clients.

Attorney at Law

Prairie State Legal Services
10.2008 - 03.2013
  • Managed significant caseloads effectively by prioritizing tasks and keeping organized records of case materials.
  • Researched and interpreted laws, rulings and regulations to advise clients on civil legal matters pertaining to housing, family law, consumer fraud, advance directives and civil rights.
  • Negotiated settlements of disputes and litigation.
  • Informed the public of their legal rights and options through active participation in community legal outreach programs.
  • Mentored law students to improve their legal knowledge, skills, and career growth potential.

Attorney at Law

Law Office of Joseph A. Frankus
11.2006 - 10.2008
  • Worked for The John Marshall Law School on the Senior Fair Housing Project conducting community outreach programs, matched testing to ascertain compliance with fair housing law, and publication of results, with recommendations to improve compliance with the fair housing laws.
  • Advised clients on their rights, obligations, and legal options with clear explanations of laws and potential outcomes.
  • Developed strategies and arguments for negotiations, hearings, and trials.

Education

J.D. - Public Interest Law

The John Marshall Law School
Chicago, IL
05-2006

Bachelor of Arts - History

Purdue Northwest
Hammond, IN
08-2002

Skills

  • Passionate Advocate
  • Collaborative team member
  • Work independently with minimal supervision
  • Goal setting and accomplishment
  • Community engagement
  • Instructional leadership

Timeline

Student Advocate

Valparaiso Community Schools
08.2016 - Current

Attorney at Law

Law Office of Joseph A. Frankus
03.2014 - 08.2016

Attorney at Law

New Mexico Public Defender Department
03.2013 - 03.2014

Attorney at Law

Prairie State Legal Services
10.2008 - 03.2013

Attorney at Law

Law Office of Joseph A. Frankus
11.2006 - 10.2008

J.D. - Public Interest Law

The John Marshall Law School

Bachelor of Arts - History

Purdue Northwest
Joseph Frankus