Paralegal

Job Summary/Basic Function:

This position will be the official Public Records Custodian for the University, responsible for providing daily paralegal assistance, involving all aspects of records coordination. A primary aspect of the position will be coordinating public records requests/responses and processing subpoenas and litigation holds. In addition, this position will provide additional operations and litigation/discovery support to the Office of General Counsel. The position will report to and work regularly with University attorneys. The position entails overseeing and coordinating records processes using software tools and technology. Must be organized, detail-and deadline-oriented, and have strong communication skills to communicate professionally with clients and the public. Must be able to work independently, efficiently and collaboratively with attorneys and campus clients. This position works full-time in the office. 

Department Overview:

The Boise State Office of General Counsel provides, manages and coordinates all legal services for the University in a collaborative, collegial, responsive and professional manner. The Office provides advice and counsel on a wide variety of matters to the University, including officers, administrators, and faculty and staff who are acting on behalf of the University. These matters include, but are not limited to, drafting, review and negotiation of agreements, advising on legislative and policy matters, employment, student affairs, athletics, responding to public record requests, real property transactions, intellectual property matters and other legal matters affecting the University. The Office also manages all litigation matters.

Level Scope:

Recognized subject matter expert who knows how to apply theory and put it into practice with in-depth understanding of the professional field with limited oversight from managers. Independently performs the full range of responsibilities within the function; requires deep job knowledge of areas typically obtained through higher education combined with experience. Manages large projects or processes and problems faced are difficult and often complex; analyzes problems/issues of diverse scope and determines solutions. May manage programs that include formulating strategies and administering policies, processes, and resources; functions with a high degree of autonomy. Influences others regarding policies, practices and procedures.

Essential Functions:

80% of the time the Paralegal will:

• Coordinate, manage, and direct the University’s public records requests.
• Receive and process records requests, locate, gather, and review responsive records, including reviewing records for exemptions or redactions permitted or required by law, including coordination and collaboration with many campus partners and unit and college custodians.
• Serve as the official Public Records Coordinator for Boise State University.  The Coordinator is the University’s designated custodian under §74-119 and is responsible for administering the statutory public records function for the University under the Public Records Act, Idaho Code §74-101 et. Seq.
• Establish, maintain, and oversee software or other systems to track and maintain matters and associated documents and files, including implementing standards for records processes; establishing or maintaining computerized database of records, forms and other legal matters.
• Conduct training and internal guidance for public records request through the University.
• Maintain records within legal software platforms, including file, document, and legal matter management software.
• Lead internal meetings to review new requests and develop record retrieval plans.

15% of the time the Paralegal will:

• Establish, maintain, implement and coordinate processes for discovery productions, litigation holds, subpoenas and responses, and general litigation support.

5% of the time the Paralegal will:

• Other duties and special projects as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, including the ability to analyze and identify legal issues under supervision of the attorneys in the Office of General Counsel, familiarity with legal terminology.
• Ability to independently work and self-regulate multiple priorities/tasks and perform work with attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and orally, including demonstrable ability to edit and write business and legal correspondence using proper grammar and punctuation as demonstrated in application materials.
• Excellent drafting/proofing/editing skills and ability to perform and communicate effectively under pressure.
• Ability to meet project deadlines while adapting to immediate demands.
• Working in an environment that requires maintaining strict confidentiality while managing highly sensitive documents and information.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a strong sense of curiosity.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience plus 5 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred in paralegal or related studies or paralegal certificate preferred for exposure to and training in legal ethics, case file management, electronic legal research, specific areas of the law (including torts, contracts and constitutional law), evidence gathering, legal document drafting, and court processes and rules.
• Understanding of legal ethics, privilege and need for confidentiality.
• Experience working in legal or other document management databases (Westlaw, HighQ, Everlaw or similar).
• Knowledge of Idaho laws, particularly Idaho Code Title 74-101, et seq. and/or experience with government law.
• Knowledge of legal and/or contract management software, such as iManage, iContracts, HighQ, Everlaw, Oracle products, or others.
• Experience with public records laws, processes, or litigation discovery processes and productions.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary range is $86,486.40 to $95,000 annually and is commensurate with experience. Boise State University provides a best-in-class benefits package, including (but not limited to):

• 12 paid holidays AND the University is closed between Christmas and New Year's (requires use of 3 vacation days)
• Between 12-24 annual paid vacation days for full-time Professional and Classified staff depending on position type and years of service
• 9.27% University contribution to your ORP retirement fund (Professional and Faculty employees)
• 11.96% University contribution to your PERSI retirement fund (Classified employees)
• Excellent medical, dental and other health-related insurance coverages
• Tuition fee waiver benefits for employees, spouses and their dependents
• See our full benefits page for more information!

Required Application Materials:

Please attach: a cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the position, and a resume that includes your educational background, relevant work history and dates of employment.

About Us:

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/