Go Back
- Position Description
The Appellate Division of the Harris County Public Defender's Office (PDO) seeks a dedicated and detail-oriented paralegal to join our team. The ideal candidate will assist attorneys with all stages of casework. This includes assisting with new client intake, gathering school, medical, and court records; corresponding with clients; keeping track of key dates, deadlines, and attorney schedules; and assisting attorneys as they advocate for clients in court or in the community.
Duties and Responsibilities:- Collaborate with attorneys to create systems of organization that help our team efficiently manage our files, our workflows, and our communications.
- Create, update, and manage electronic and hard case files.
- Request, organize and digitize education, medical, and court records.
- Document all work and time spent on each case.
- Return client calls and respond to minor client inquiries in a timely manner.
- Provide relief to receptionist on weekly basis – answer phones and assist the public.
- Scan closed files and log digital evidence (CDs/DVDs/thumb drives/drop box).
- Zealously protect the confidentiality of client information.
- Additional duties as assigned.
- Self-starter able to work independently without supervision.
- Proactively seeks additional duties and responsibilities.
- Organizes and prioritizes multiple projects simultaneously to maintain a high level of productivity.
- Meets deadlines.
- Makes effective and efficient use of time in carrying out responsibilities.
- Is familiar with and adheres to established rules for professional conduct.
- Willing to learn new duties, approaches, and routines.
- Communicates with persons inside and outside of the organization in a prompt, positive and professional manner.
- Recognizes public service as a high calling.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.- Requirements
Education and Experience:
Paralegal certificate
OR
An Associates degree in Paralegal Studies from an accredited college or university.
OR
Bachelor’s degree in Legal Support Services/Legal Studies from an accredited college or university.
At least five (5) years of experience as a Paralegal.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Must be able to work in an open office environment and assist attorneys and other staff in other divisions within the PDO if requested.
- Effective organizational and time management skills.
- Must be able to manage a demanding caseload of cases.
- Proficient written and oral communication skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office.
- Notary Eligible.
- Must be a self-starter and have initiative.
- Must take pride in the work produced.
NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.
- Preferences
Bilingual in English/Spanish.
Some college coursework.
While a paralegal certificate is preferred, experience can be considered in lieu of a certificate.
- General Information
Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:
Regular Full-time
Monday Friday | 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Salary:
Depends on Qualifications
Based on 26 pay periods
Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
- $43,000 - $86,000/year
Quickly create a cover letter, get resume help, and more with our free AI tools!
