Post Bar Legal Clerk; Paralegal II

ABOUT THE POSITION

Post Bar Legal Clerks play a vital and hands‑on role in advancing our mission to provide exceptional representation to Public Defender Clients. In this position, you will work closely with experienced attorneys, conducting meaningful research, drafting motions, assisting with trial preparation, and participating in ongoing training designed to strengthen your courtroom skills and deepen your understanding of criminal law. Under the guidance and mentorship of Public Defender Attorneys, Post Bar Legal Clerks gain immediate courtroom experience by appearing at arraignment and bail hearings and actively participating in misdemeanor cases from start to finish.

This role offers a unique opportunity to develop practical skills, build confidence in the courtroom and engage directly in all aspects of criminal practice.

To learn more about the Public Defender's Office, .

Part‑time extra‑help is a provisional classification where permanent status may not be obtained. This position is subject to overtime, standby, shift, and callback assignments and will perform related duties as assigned. This position is non‑benefited except for participation in a 401a program with Nationwide.

Incumbents may also be subject to overtime, standby, callback, weekend, holiday and shift assignments as identified in their MOU (Memorandum of Understanding).

The Job Task Analysis provides information detailing the physical and functional demands of the classification. For the complete job task analysis, visit the Risk Management website at  the "Disability" tab.

• Research, interpret, apply laws, court decisions and other legal authorities for use in preparation of case opinions and briefs, with minimum instruction
• Review documents to determine compliance with statutes, court decisions, and other applicable laws
• Prepare and/or assist in the preparation of pleadings, points and authorities and related legal documents
• Maintain legal case files
• Conduct interviews
• Inventory evidence
• Accept service of process; and
• Retrieve and respond to requests for information and/or inquiries from interested parties
• Interview clients
• Review and evaluate discovery, applying legal principles and analysis
• Negotiate dispositions consistent with client’s expressed wishes and goals
• Compile information and data necessary for the preparation of various departmental reports
• Answer the telephone, take messages, and meet and assist the public
• Monitor files for completeness and propriety
• Legal research and writing; and
• Oral advocacy in courtroom proceedings

• Criminal, family law and civil legal procedures, trial and hearing procedures, and rules of evidence
• General County government functions, practices, procedures and legal responsibility
• Working knowledge of legal research techniques
• Basic accounting principles and practices

• Independently research, analyze and apply legal principles, facts, evidence and precedents to legal problems
• Present statements of law and fact clearly, accurately and logically in written/oral form
• Independently perform legal research
• Understand and explain provisions of the law and applicable procedures
• Read and understand statutes, court decisions and legal documents
• Prioritize and manage a caseload
• Analyze complex information relating to criminal, civil or family law cases
• Understand and adhere to rules, regulations, policies and procedures

We recognize your time is valuable, please only apply if you meet the following required qualifications.

• One (1) year experience equivalent to a Paralegal I in Stanislaus County; AND

• Certificate of completion from a recognized paralegal program or associate’s degree in paralegal studies.

• Successful completion of two (2) years from a recognized law school.

Proof of education is required for verification purposes at the time of application. Applicants who are unable to submit proof must call 209‑525‑4209.

• Applicants must take and pass the BAR exam within one (1) year of graduating from law school.

Applications cannot be submitted later…