Paralegal - Niles

DUTIES:

• Performs substantive and procedural legal tasks that would otherwise be handled by an attorney.
• Assists the Public Defender and staff with case preparation and legal research.
• Drafts and prepares legal documents and court filings.
• Manages highly confidential documents and information related to Public Defender operations and personnel.
• Completes special projects and assignments at the direction of the Public Defender or designee.
• This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate Degree in criminal justice or paralegal studies or lawyer’s assistant program accredited with the ABA and one year of experience working in a legal environment; OR
• Three to five years of paralegal experience.
• Experience working in the criminal justice system or law office is preferred.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Paralegal will be assigned to work two days in the Niles office every other week.
• Must possess and maintain a valid vehicle operator’s license throughout the course of employment.
• A pre-employment physical, drug test and background check are required before employment.
• Will be fingerprinted and subject to random drug and alcohol testing during the course of employment.
• May be assigned to work flexible hours in the fulfillment of duties.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Knowledge of criminal law through formal education, training, and experience sufficient to perform legal work under attorney supervision.
• General understanding of County court operations and procedures.
• Proficiency in personal computers and software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, WestLaw, and internet applications.
• Strong communication, organizational, and writing skills, with the ability to manage tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to exercise sound independent judgment and interact professionally with court staff, colleagues, and the public.

TO APPLY ONLINE, CLICK HERE:

TO APPLY VIA EMAIL, FAX, MAIL OR IN PERSON:

If you prefer not to apply online, you may download a Berrien County Job Application and send it to our Personnel Department via email, fax, mail or in person. A Berrien County job application must be submitted in order to be considered for employment.

Submit by Email
Fax: (269) 983-5788
Address: Berrien County Administration Building, Personnel Department, 701 Main St., St. Joseph, MI 49085