Paralegal, Appellate Division
Harris CountyPosition Description
The Appellate Division of the Harris County Public Defender's Office (PDO) seeks a dedicated and detail-oriented paralegal to join our team. The ideal candidate will assist attorneys with all stages of casework. This includes assisting with new client intake, gathering school, medical, and court records; corresponding with clients; keeping track of key dates, deadlines, and attorney schedules; and assisting attorneys as they advocate for clients in court or in the community.
Duties and Responsibilities:- Collaborate with attorneys to create systems of organization that help our team efficiently manage our files, our workflows, and our communications.
- Create, update, and manage electronic and hard case files.
- Request, organize and digitize education, medical, and court records.
- Document all work and time spent on each case.
- Return client calls and respond to minor client inquiries in a timely manner.
- Provide relief to receptionist on weekly basis – answer phones and assist the public.
- Scan closed files and log digital evidence (CDs/DVDs/thumb drives/drop box).
- Zealously protect the confidentiality of client information.
- Additional duties as assigned.
- Self-starter able to work independently without supervision.
- Proactively seeks additional duties and responsibilities.
- Organizes and prioritizes multiple projects simultaneously to maintain a high level of productivity.
- Meets deadlines.
- Makes effective and efficient use of time in carrying out responsibilities.
- Is familiar with and adheres to established rules for professional conduct.
- Willing to learn new duties, approaches, and routines.
- Communicates with persons inside and outside of the organization in a prompt, positive and professional manner.
- Recognizes public service as a high calling.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.Requirements
Education and Experience:
Paralegal certificate
OR
An Associates degree in Paralegal Studies from an accredited college or university.
OR
Bachelor’s degree in Legal Support Services/Legal Studies from an accredited college or university.
At least five (5) years of experience as a Paralegal.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Must be able to work in an open office environment and assist attorneys and other staff in other divisions within the PDO if requested.
- Effective organizational and time management skills.
- Must be able to manage a demanding caseload of cases.
- Proficient written and oral communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office.
- Notary Eligible.
- Must be a self-starter and have initiative.
- Must take pride in the work produced.
NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
Preferences
Bilingual in English/Spanish.
Some college coursework.
While a paralegal certificate is preferred, experience can be considered in lieu of a certificate.
General Information
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
Regular Full-time
Monday Friday | 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Salary:
Depends on Qualifications
Based on 26 pay periods
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.