Harris County
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, including new client intake, gathering school, medical, and court records, corresponding with clients, keeping track of key dates and deadlines, and supporting attorneys in court and community settings.
Duties and Responsibilities
Collaborate with attorneys to create systems of organization that help our team efficiently manage files, workflows, and 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 promptly.
Provide relief to reception on a 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 seek additional duties and responsibilities.
Organize and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously to maintain a high level of productivity.
Meet deadlines.
Make 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.
Communicate with persons inside and outside the organization in a prompt, positive and professional manner.
Recognize public service as a high calling.
Requirements Education and Experience
Paralegal certificate
Associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies from an accredited college or university
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: Regular Full-time Typical Hours: 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.
Equal Employment Opportunity Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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.
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Duties and Responsibilities
Collaborate with attorneys to create systems of organization that help our team efficiently manage files, workflows, and 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 promptly.
Provide relief to reception on a 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 seek additional duties and responsibilities.
Organize and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously to maintain a high level of productivity.
Meet deadlines.
Make 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.
Communicate with persons inside and outside the organization in a prompt, positive and professional manner.
Recognize public service as a high calling.
Requirements Education and Experience
Paralegal certificate
Associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies from an accredited college or university
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: Regular Full-time Typical Hours: 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.
Equal Employment Opportunity Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr