Legal Assistant/ Paralegal

JOB SUMMARY

This position provides administrative support for the attorneys in the Public Defender’s Office.

MAJOR DUTIES

• Coordinates comprehensive case management including opening and closing files; requesting discovery; drafting documents; contacting Court Administration, Clerks of Court and State’s Attorney’s Office.

• Serves as a primary point of contact with clients, providing updates and gathering information.

• E-files documents with both the Court and in the case management system.

• Aids in the preparation and completion of reports for the Court, Court Administration, Clerks of Courts, County Auditor and County Commission.

• Provides administrative support to attorneys as needed, including but not limited to court hearings, county and committee meetings and the running of the Public Defender’s Office.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of court procedures and legal terminology.

• Knowledge of modern office principles and practices.

• Knowledge of customer service principles and practices.

• Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.

• Skill in the preparation of reports.

• Skill in decision making and problem solving.

• Skill in interpersonal relations and in dealing with the public.

• Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Chief Public Defender assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include ICWA procedures, South Dakota codified laws, and county and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of related administrative duties. Strict deadlines and frequent interruptions contribute to the complexity of the position.

• The purpose of this position is to provide administrative support for department operations. Success in this position contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of those operations.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with co-workers, attorneys, court personnel, law enforcement officers, and members of the general public.

• Contacts are typically to provide services, to give or exchange information, or to resolve problems.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table. The employee occasionally lifts light objects.

• The work is typically performed in an office.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

This position may supervise assigned personnel.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work and/or a high school diploma.

  Equal Opportunity Employer