Paralegal

Job Description

GENERAL PURPOSE

Performs a variety of specialized Paralegal/Legal Assistant work under the general supervision of the Attorneys for the City.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Employee has no supervisory responsibilities.

Essential Duties

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Under the supervision of an attorney, assists with the timely processing of Public Information Act Requests to include coordinating the gathering of responsive documents with various departments within the City, reviewing and redacting documents, communicating with requestors about their requests, using the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) software system, writing letters to requestors, and drafting requests for Attorney General Opinions within the time limits set by law to process these requests.

Assists attorneys in preparation of documents for trials, hearings, mediation, depositions, etc.

Under the supervision of an attorney, prepares resolutions, contracts, leases, ordinances and other miscellaneous legal instruments.

Conducts traditional and computer-based legal research.

Maintains records and filing systems, focusing on keeping litigation and legal research files current and organized.

Operates a vehicle to run errands. Serves as backup to the Executive Assistant, handling phone calls and messages.

Serves as backup to the front-desk Receptionist as needed.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalency; and
• Paralegal Certificate from an accredited school of paralegal studies; or
• A two (2) or four (4) year Degree in Paralegal Studies.
• One (1) year legal experience preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of legal terminology, writing, and research methods.
• Ability to draft basic legal documents with limited assistance and within statutory deadlines.
• Good organizational, oral, writing, and proofreading skills.
• Possess advanced computer skills in the use of word processing, spread sheet, and Adobe Pro.
• Ability to communicate effectively and efficiently, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships.

Supplemental Information

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must obtain and maintain a Texas Driver’s License within 60 days of hire.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Telephone; personal computer including word processing software, FOIA software, spreadsheets, Adobe Pro, and Power Point; LexisNexis and/or other computer-based legal research; copy machine; postage meter machine; and other office tools.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk and hear and read. The employee is occasionally required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms.

The employee may be required to drive for certain tasks to complete the job duties and/or to attend required training.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to twenty-five (25) pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

Formal application, rating of education and experience; oral interview and reference check; job related tests may be required.

The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.