Legal Office Assistant

The Minnehaha County Public Defender's Office invites applications for a Legal Office Assistant. We are seeking a skilled and motivated Legal Office Assistant to join our team! This position performs complex legal secretarial work such as answering phones, greeting and assisting clients, preparing legal documents, scheduling appointments for legal proceedings, and managing case information for client files.

This rewarding position works in a fast-paced office and employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package including paid holidays; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous PTO program; extended sick leave program; inclusion into the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS); and a deferred compensation plan!

• Answer and direct phone calls.
• Greet and assist clients and walk-ins.
• Type, prepare, and send legal documents (letters, orders, affidavits, motions, summonses, briefs).
• Take and transcribe notes and dictation.
• File and route legal documents.
• Maintain scheduling calendars and arrange legal proceedings.
• Make copies, request reports and records, and maintain files.
• Prepare and track employee leave and attorney billing time.
• Assist in filing pleadings and ensure procedural compliance for motions.

High school diploma or GED and two years of secretarial work experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Working knowledge of modern office practices and procedures and legal terminology. Skill in taking and transcribing notes accurately and rapidly. Skill in operating a personal computer accurately and rapidly. Ability to exercise great tact, patience, and judgment when managing office clients and their family members. Ability to plan and direct the work of others. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other agencies and the public. Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.

Minnehaha County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, sex or gender including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by contacting Human Resources at (605) 367-4337.