Paralegal

The City of Wilmington is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

The purpose of this position is to provide paralegal support for the staff attorneys. This is accomplished by researching applicable legal authorities, presenting findings, drafting legal pleadings and documents, assisting with investigations and case preparation, coordinating between the City Attorney's office and other City departments and outside agencies, monitoring deadlines, drafting resolutions and amendments to City Ordinances, drafting answers to discovery requests, performing title searches of real estate, preparing real estate documents, preparing correspondence, conducting real estate closings, and reviewing public records requests. Other duties include coordinating with various boards and groups within the City.

Performs legal research by identifying the issue to be researched; reading and comprehending statues, case law and other legal authorities; and presenting findings.

Prepares records and legal documents by drafting language for documents, typing documents, creating databases for projects, tracking multiple projects, preparing agenda items for City Council meetings, preparing correspondence and closing documents, communicating with home owners to resolve concerns, and requesting and disbursing checks.

Prepares cases by setting up files, drafting routine pleadings, gathering missing information, interviewing and coordinating witnesses, drafting discovery requests and responses, and preparing trial exhibits.

Education:   Work requires knowledge of a specific vocational, administrative, or technical nature which may be obtained with a two year associate's degree or education and experience equivalency.

Experience: 2-3 years of relevant experience in law, government, or related field.

Requirements:   

• Certification by the N.C. State Bar Board of Paralegal Certification or the ability to obtain within 18 months of hire.
• Class C Driver's License.

Our Core Values: 

INCLUSION | COLLABORATION | CREATIVITY | ACCOUNTABILITY

Our Mission Statement:  Through forward-thinking policies and responsible stewardship, we are creating a better city every day with excellent core services and quality of life for all.

What we offer:

The City of Wilmington believes that employees are one of our most important resources.  We offer an excellent salary and competitive benefits package to serve the needs of our employees and their families.  Our benefits package includes:  

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance + many other insurance options
• Excellent retirement benefits, including a city provided 4.5% contribution each pay period into a 401(k) account and automatic enrollment into the North Carolina Local Government Employees’ Retirement System
• Employer-paid health & wellness clinic
• Free on-site city gym access  
• Paid sick and vacation leave + 13 paid holidays per year
• 6-weeks paid parental leave
• Paid volunteer & blood donation leave to give back to our community
• Flex schedule and telework availability, depending on your position
• Professional development trainings & leadership initiatives 
• Tuition assistance benefits

Applicant Status Updates:  After the closing date for this position, applications will be screened by Human Resources. Applicants who meet the minimum and/or preferred qualifications will be referred over to the hiring department.   All updates regarding an application can be viewed through your applicant portal.