Paralegal

Job Purpose

The Paralegal I, under occasional supervision, performs legal research in accordance with preliminary instructions on methods or approach, source materials available, policy and precedent of the office, and assists the Department of Social Services Legal Unit. The ideal candidate will have a working knowledge of case, statutory, and common law, judicial and quasi‑judicial procedures, and the rules of evidence.

• Perform legal research as instructed, using available sources and office precedent.
• Summarize facts and evidence and prepare legal instruments.
• Adhere to office practices and procedures; demonstrate thorough knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, and spelling.
• Gather and compose materials from independent sources.
• Interpret and explain policies, regulations, and programs.
• Communicate clearly and logically in oral and written form.
• Coordinate a volume and variety of appointments, meetings, and conferences.
• Exercise judgment and discretion in problem situations independently; answer inquiries and coordinate resources for information acquisition.
• Maintain rigorous time mandates.
• Maintain effective working relationships with contacted persons.

This position is in a fast‑paced, effort‑intensive legal environment. It requires work with minimal supervision. Access to highly confidential information is provided, and some subject matter may be disturbing.

Education & Experience: Graduation from an accredited paralegal training program with one year of experience, OR graduation from a four‑year college/university with a degree in English, Journalism, or a related field and one year substantive paralegal experience, OR graduation from high school with five years substantive paralegal experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Computer

Skills:

Prior computer skills experience with Microsoft Windows.

License/Credentials: Possession of a valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle.

• Accountability – Accept responsibility and account for actions.
• Accuracy – Perform work accurately and thoroughly.
• Adaptable – Frequently adjust to changes.
• Communication (Oral) – Communicate effectively with others.
• Communication (Written) – Communicate in writing clearly and concisely.
• Confidentiality – Distinguish confidential information and maintain its sensitivity.
• Honesty – Be truthful and credible.
• Integrity – Trustworthy and dependable.
• Judgment – Use good judgment and discretion following policies and procedures.
• Safety‑Minded – Create a safe work environment and manage risks.
• Teamwork – Work successfully and productively with others.

• Stand – Often (O)
• Walk – Occasional (O)
• Sit – Frequently (F)
• Manually Manipulate – Constantly (C)
• Reach Outward – Frequently (F)
• Reach Above Shoulder – Occasional (O)
• Climb – Occasional (O)
• Crawl – Not applicable (N)
• Squat or Kneel – Occasional (O)
• Bend – Occasional (O)
• Talk/Hear – Constantly (C)
• See – Constantly (C)
• Taste/Smell – Occasional (O)
• Lift/Carry ≤10 lbs. – Frequently (F)
• Lift/Carry 11‑20 lbs. – Occasional (O)
• Lift/Carry 21‑50 lbs. – Occasional (O)
• Lift/Carry 51‑100 lbs. – Occasional (O)
• Push/Pull ≤12 lbs. – Frequently (F)
• Push/Pull 13‑25 lbs. – Occasional (O)
• Push/Pull 26‑40 lbs. – Occasional (O)
• Push/Pull 41‑100 lbs. – Occasional (O)
• Vision – Near, distance, peripheral – Constantly (C)

Standard office environment.

Full‑time employees are eligible for comprehensive health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits. Additional voluntary benefits provide coverage for life, disability, and emergency services. Employees may also access fitness and wellness programs, employee assistance, and health center services. Specific eligibility and enrollment periods apply as outlined by the county.