Legal Asst./Secretary

JOB OBJECTIVES: Incumbent is responsible for providing clerical, secretarial, administrative, and legal assistance support to the Public Defender/Director and staff. A successful candidate should also demonstrate the ability to think and work independently; communicate effectively; possess a dedicated work ethic; and be willing to accept the clerical and administrative responsibilities of a demanding criminal practice and caseload.   

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Acting as a receptionist, answering and directing calls, and advising clients as to the status of their cases;
• Opening files on all new cases and logging information into the computer;
• Preparing pleadings and other documents for attorneys to review before filing with the Court;
• Documenting Court schedules from court notices for each attorney;
• Interviewing prospective client to determine indigent eligibility for representation;
• Reviewing the court schedule daily and notify attorneys on cases added to daily court schedule;
• Prepares a preliminary list for Friday and make sure attorneys have files;
• Preparing and sending on a timely basis all notices and letters to clients;
• Daily mail pickup and filings at the courthouse;
• File all entries and closed files in designated area;

I. JOB REQUIREMENTS

Equipment: Incumbent operates the following equipment: copier, typewriter, calculator, computer, and printer.

Critical Skills/Expertise:

• Knowledge of Criminal Court rules and procedures;
• Knowledge of law office functions;
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
• Knowledge of computers and related equipment;
• Ability to understand and follow detailed instructions;
• Ability to work with little supervision.

II. DIFFICULTY OF WORK

Work involves moderately complex, relatively standardized tasks, processes, and operations following established laws and procedures.

III. RESPONSIBILITY

Supervisor provides technical and detailed instructions regarding Court pleadings and filings, and reviews work daily. Incumbent makes general decisions regarding work independently. Errors in work could result in incorrect scheduling.

IV. PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS

Incumbent has contact with co-workers, public sector employees, and institutional residents. The purpose of these contacts is to schedule clients and interview inmates.

V. PHYSICAL EFFORT AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Physical

Requirements: Incumbent performs heavy work which may require lifting up to fifty (50) pounds occasionally.

Physical Activity: Incumbent performs the following physical activities: stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, pulling, lifting, fingering, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.

Visual Activity: Incumbent performs work where the seeing job is close to the eyes.

Job Location: Incumbent works inside with no exposure to adverse environmental conditions.