Paralegal

Looking to make a difference! Become a Defender! 

Are you looking to join an organization with a great mission? The Defender represents client who are accused of serious charges and who cannot afford an attorney. We are looking for a paralegal in our Special Litigation Division (SLD) which provides representation in domestic violence and sex cases at various stages that are often complex and challenging. The SLD Paralegal will provide support to attorneys at all levels of practice and will work on cases at different stages of the criminal process. Organization, attention to detail, interest in the criminal justice system, strong communication skills, and a willingness to learn are necessary attributes for this position.

What You’ll Do

• Calculate clients’ Sentencing Guidelines. 
• Analyze cases for potential mandatory and/or recidivist sentencing enhancements and order all records necessary to perform such analysis, including, but not limited to, clients’ out-of-county criminal case files.  
• Aid attorneys or other organizational units that need Sentencing Guidelines calculated, updated, or amended. 
• Identify Defender conflicts of interest and recommend resolutions. 
• Receive, review, and request pretrial discovery from the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office.
• Order and obtain notes of testimony.
• Perform legal research and draft pretrial motions at the trial level with attorney oversight.  
• Transcribe video or audio discovery as needed. 
• Respond to external communications from clients and family members as needed.  
• Maintain and update files through the Defender’s electronic case management systems. 
• Assist unit coordinator and administrative assistant as assigned. 
• Perform other related duties as assigned

What You’ll Need

• Bachelor or Associate degree with paralegal certification or any equivalent combination of relevant education and professional experience. 
• Experience working with indigent clients in criminal justice proceedings preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Keen sense of organization and attention to detail. 
• Strong analytical skills and ability to problem-solve independently.
• Ability to interpret and apply the Pennsylvania Crimes Code to individual cases. 
• Ability to communicate effectively, professionally, and respectfully with clients, family members, internal staff, and external agencies/personnel. 
• Ability to work in a high-volume practice and prioritize assignments effectively.   
• Commitment to professionalism in the workplace. 
• Familiarity with the Philadelphia criminal court system preferred. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or similar computer software. 
• Familiarity with Westlaw and the legal research process. 
• Working knowledge of Defender computer databases preferred but not required. 
• General knowledge of basic administrative and clerical duties.  
• Willingness to learn new organizational and computer systems.
• Ability to handle sensitive matters and commitment to maintaining client confidentiality
• Willingness to go to court and the Philadelphia county jails if necessary. 
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift at least 15 pounds

Benefits & Perks

• Generous and rich benefits plan with many employer paid benefits
• Substantial paid time off (over 35 PTO days)
• We are a PSLF eligible employer
• Wellness benefits
• Free Septa Key Card
• Retirement savings plan w/employer match
• Meaningful work 
• Growth opportunities

To Apply:

Please include a cover letter detailing your experience and interest in this role.  

Who is the Defender Association? 

The Defender Association of Philadelphia is more than just a law firm. We’re the community’s lawyers.

The Defender team – more than 500 attorneys, social workers, investigators, administrators, and other staff – make sure that everyone, regardless of income, has access to high-quality defense when facing criminal charges. Our mission-driven, client-centered model focuses on outcomes that support a system that is fundamentally fair and creates safer, stronger communities. Our unique model and approach give our staff with the skills and support they need to get the best outcomes for our clients. Come join our team! For more information, go to Defender Association of Philadelphia and follow us @PhillyDefenders (Twitter, IG, Tiktok) and on LinkedIn. 

The Defender Association provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, The Defender Association complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.