What are the responsibilities and job description for the Judicial Secretary (Philadelphia/Harrisburg) Commonwealth Court position at AOPC Administrative Office of PA Courts?
Established in 1968, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania is an intermediate appellate court responsible for matters involving state and local governments and appeals from state agencies and the Courts of Common Pleas. You will be joining a distinguished and well-respected organization that provides employees with appropriate compensation, excellent benefits, and opportunities to learn and grow. The Honorable Judge Tsai is accepting applicants for a Judicial Secretary within her Philadelphia or Harrisburg chambers. The interested individual will perform a variety of legal secretarial functions while interacting extensively with the Judge, chambers staff and other departments of the court. Outstanding written and oral communication skills are required. The individual must be professional, flexible, organized and detailed. Primary Duties Implements and follows procedures that expedite the flow of memoranda and other court documents. Screens visitors and phone calls for the judge, appraises the judge of all office activity in regard to visitors and callers, and answers inquiries or refers them to appropriate person for handling. Sorts, reviews and routes mail and email; maintains control over incoming and outgoing correspondence and prepares standard replies on subjects relating to the status or pertinent dates of cases. Retrieves and assembles legal documents and briefs in prescribed format copies and transmits to other chambers as required. Circulates draft opinions electronically to other chambers; enters and maintains electronic voting records for Judge; files opinions and orders after final approval. Uses the computer to prepare memoranda and other correspondence from oral instructions, handwritten notes and rough drafts; circulates such correspondence to other judges, prothonotary, filing office or others as required. Maintains case files, journals and general files, as well as records of filings, court activity, and legal appointments. Arranges and schedules appointments and prepares travel arrangements for the judge. Limited travel may be required within the state of Pennsylvania. Performs related work as required. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent; AND Five years of legal, civil paralegal and related legal secretarial experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience, and/or training may be considered, at the discretion of the employing judge, subject to approval by the President Judge. A satisfactory criminal background check is required. Additional Preferences / Requirements: Thorough knowledge of court procedures and policies, legal documents, laws and legal factors pertaining to the court. Thorough knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment including use of Microsoft based computer products. Thorough knowledge of legal terminology, legal bibliography, methods of citing and legal procedures. Ability to type with utmost accuracy and awareness of detail. Ability to maintain accurate and organized files and records, and to compile complete meaningful reports utilizing PACMS, or other available systems. Ability to independently prepare and assemble entire orders, opinions, memoranda, and other legal documents. Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in handling callers and interacting with the public and court-related personnel. Experience with PACMS or other computerized case management or docketing system. Employee Benefits Full medical, dental, and vision benefits begin on first day of employment. Generous annual and sick leave plus thirteen scheduled holidays per year. Retirement plan with the State Employees' Retirement System. Other benefits and full details can be found at www.pacourts.us under Human Resources Salary information Salary: $53,228 - $69,854 Starting salary will vary depending upon the qualifications and employment history of the selected candidate. Commencement: on or after January 5, 2026 With your application, please submit a cover letter, resume and references. Applicants requiring accommodation, for any part of the application and/or interview process, should contact Human Resources at (717) 231-3309 or human.resources@pacourts.us. In the Pennsylvania Courts, people are our priority. Become part of a dynamic and diverse branch of government focused on promoting access to justice for all. Discover fulfilling opportunities that align with your passion, and be part of a team dedicated to making a positive impact through public service. Explore the possibilities with us at the Pennsylvania Courts – where career meets purpose. 5 Reasons to Clerk for the Pennsylvania Courts If you currently work for PA Courts, please apply internally through the Jobs Hub tab on your Workday dashboard.
Salary : $53,228 - $69,854
