Paralegal/Legal Assistant

Responsibility for assisting City Civil and Criminal Divisions of the Legal Department in a variety of tasks designed to provide efficient delivery of services, including researching laws, investigating facts, preparing documents, and maintaining files. Work is performed under the general direction of the City Attorney.

• Possesses and maintains extensive knowledge of civil and criminal legal terminology, procedures, practices and processes, and ability to effectively utilize research techniques, including electronic research methods.
• Researches and analyzes law sources such as statutes, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, treaties, constitutions and legal codes.
• Prepares legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, agreements, contracts, deeds and other documents for review, approval and use by the attorneys.
• Investigates facts and law of cases to determine causes of action and to prepare cases accordingly. 
• Compiles and reviews documents for record dissemination, including redaction of private or confidential matter, in response to public record or other requests.
• Assists attorneys in preparing, calendaring, and scheduling for hearings, closings, trials, and other functions as needed.
• Maintains filing and distribution of documents with proper indexing and filing of original legal documents.
• Files pleadings with court clerks. 
• Possesses proficiency in editing, grammar and spelling.
• Provides reception to callers and visitors to City Attorney’s office and answering or directing inquiries from the public or other departments.
• Obtains and accurately relays information from attorneys, departments, witnesses and the general public regarding cases. Acts as liaison between attorneys and members of external agencies and the general public.
• Assists staff in Criminal Division as needed.
• Serves as administrative assistant back up for payroll and other financial functions.
• Possesses working knowledge of standard office equipment (including computer, photocopier, fax, multi-function telephone, and other equipment); uses equipment and materials properly.

• Paralegal degree or certification desired.
• Five years of related experience and/or training desired.

• Ability to read and interpret general business mail, periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
• Ability to write reports and business correspondence; develop complex legal documents and records.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from City departments, elected officials, and the general public.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective, professional working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, outside attorneys, court officials and the general public, including the handling of difficult situations. 
• Ability to work independently, to adapt to change in the work place, including unexpected delays or events, and to react well under pressure.
• Ability to understand and adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines and demonstrate integrity in handling confidential information.
• Ability to adhere to applicable ethical standards and policies.
• Ability to interact constructively with others in a collaborative “team” setting; treat others with respect and consideration regardless of status or position.
• Ability to be punctual in delivery of services and in attendance.

Salary : $43,711 - $54,639