Temporary Legal Assistant I

WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION.

 Join Our Legal Team! Temporary Legal Assistant I Opportunity at the Office of the City Attorney

Are you detail-oriented, organized, and eager to begin or further your career in the legal field? The City of Torrance is excited to announce an excellent opportunity for a Temporary Legal Assistant I in the Office of the City Attorney, specifically supporting the Criminal Prosecution Division.

This is your chance to contribute to meaningful work while gaining valuable experience in a public sector legal environment!

The Department: The City Attorney's Office plays a pivotal role in guiding and representing the City Council and City departments on various legal matters, ensuring compliance with state laws and Municipal Codes. With divisions specializing in General Advice, Civil Litigation, and Criminal Prosecution, we are committed to upholding justice and the rule of law in Torrance.

• Preparing legal documents such as complaints, subpoenas, pleadings, memoranda, and more.
• Transcribing audio recordings of hearings and legal proceedings.
• Maintaining case files and keeping track of deadlines, court dates, and legal documents.
• Ensuring accuracy and proper formatting of legal citations.
• Serving as a liaison between defense attorneys, witnesses, court personnel, and City prosecutors
• Managing the division’s case management system.
• Preparing legal packets for attorneys, judges, and other stakeholders.
• Helping maintain the City Attorney’s law library, keeping materials up to date.
• Processing contracts and invoices for payment.
• Providing general administrative support to ensure the efficient functioning of the division.

This position is perfect for someone who is highly organized, detail-oriented, and eager to grow their skills in a professional legal setting. If you’re passionate about public service and want to be part of a mission-driven legal team, we encourage you to apply!

Education and Experience
High school graduation or equivalent. A minimum of one year of recent experience in a law office or criminal justice setting in an administrative or clerical role; or completion of a legal secretarial program that required a minimum of one year of study.  Experience in a public agency is preferred.

License and/or Certificates
Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License and safe driving record may be required for assignment to some positions in the classification.

Ideal Candidate

The most successful candidate for the Temporary Legal Assistant I position will be a proactive and detail-oriented professional with a strong foundation in legal or administrative support. In addition to the above requirements, the most successful candidate will possess the following:

• Proven experience in accurate data entry, document preparation, and general administrative support, ideally within a legal or government setting.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt quickly in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work cooperatively and professionally with attorneys, court staff, law enforcement, the public, and other City departments.
• Discretion and sound judgment when handling confidential or sensitive legal information.
• Attention to detail and accuracy, particularly when reviewing legal citations and preparing official documents.
• A commitment to public service, professionalism, and a collaborative team-oriented approach.

Interested candidates must submit an online application and supplemental questionnaire at www.TorranceCA.Gov/Jobs. The application filing period opens Tuesday, May 20, 2025 and closes Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. 

Please note: This is a temporary position with the potential to last up to six months, though it may end sooner based on department needs.

Interviews are tentatively scheduled for June 5-6, 2025, or June 9, 2025. Interviews for qualified candidates may be scheduled during the filing period, so we strongly encourage you to apply early!

For questions, please contact Jennica Chaparro at JChaparro@TorranceCA.Gov.

• Applicants with disabilities who require special testing arrangements must contact Civil Service prior to the examination date(s). Please reach out at (310) 618-2967 to request accommodations.

• As a condition of employment, candidates must pass an employment and criminal history background check.

• The provisions of this announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and may be modified or revoked without notice.

City of Torrance Inclusion Statement

The City of Torrance is a welcoming and culturally-rich community. As a pillar of public service, we strive to be an employer of choice by attracting and retaining a talented workforce where people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, religions, and lifestyles are valued. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where our staff are empowered to perform at their highest level and contribute towards making a positive impact.
 
The City is an equal opportunity employer and works towards building collaborative teams from all walks of life without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. Come join us to help cultivate a workplace that welcomes and celebrates the diversity of our employees!