LAW CLERK - JUVENILE COURT

JOB SUMMARY
The purpose of this classification is to conduct legal research and advise judges on legal issues. This position requires a Juris Doctorate.

MAJOR DUTIES

• Conducts legal research on cases; researches and analyzes law sources such as law books, statutes, case books, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, legal codes, or computer databases; investigates facts and law of cases and applies law to facts presented by cases; reaches conclusions.
• Listens to arguments of counsel, observes oral/written legal arguments and determines whether arguments have merit. Observes case procedures; recommends alternative procedures as appropriate.
• Advises judges on legal issues in support of various cases.
• Prepares drafts of orders relating to judges’ decisions for use by judges. Sets hearings; attends trials and hearings; assists in drug court as needed.
• Reads motions filed by attorneys.
• Monitors inventory of department equipment and supplies; ensures availability of adequate materials to conduct work activities; initiates orders for new/replacement materials.
• Provides budgetary input relating to area of assignment. Maintains current resource materials; updates legal research tools.
• Prepares or completes various forms, reports, correspondence, proposed judicial orders, legal memoranda, or other documents.
• Receives various forms, reports, correspondence, court pleadings, attorney’s briefs, law books, statutes, case books, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, legal codes, legal publications, appeals reports, case law updates, bulletins, journals, ordinances, statutes, computer resources, reference materials, manuals, or other documentation; reviews, completes, processes, forwards or retains as appropriate.
• Operates a computer to enter, retrieve, review or modify data; verifies accuracy of entered data and makes corrections; utilizes word processing, database, legal research, Internet, email, or other computer programs; performs basic maintenance of computer system and office equipment, such as backing up data or replacing paper, ink, or toner.
• Communicates with supervisors, employees, other departments, judges, attorneys, court personnel, law enforcement personnel, other law enforcement agencies, outside agencies, the public, the media, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, review status of work, exchange information, or resolve problems.
• Travel to other counties as needed.
• Maintains a comprehensive, current knowledge of applicable laws/regulations; maintains an awareness of new trends and advances in the profession; reads professional literature; maintains professional affiliations; attends workshops and training sessions as appropriate.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of county and departmental policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of computers and job-related software programs.
• Knowledge of court standards, practices, and terminology.
• Knowledge of state laws regarding Juvenile Court procedures.
• Knowledge of legal terminology, forms, and grammar.
• Skill in prioritizing and organizing work.
• Skill in the provision of customer services.
• Skill in the maintenance of files and records.
• Skill in the use of such office equipment as a computer, scanner, fax machine, and copier.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The Judge assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES
Guidelines include office and court policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of related secretarial duties. The volume of cases contributes to the complexity of the position.
• The purpose of this position is to provide administrative and secretarial support for Juvenile Court operations. Successful performance contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of those operations.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with co-workers, other court employees, guardians ad litem, law enforcement personnel, attorneys, interpreters, representatives of community agencies, family members, and the public.
• Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed while sitting at a desk or table.
• The work is typically performed in an office.

• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with the completion of a Juris Doctorate degree is required.
• Supplemented by 5 months of previous experience and/or training involving legal research; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position

Benefits:

• Bi-weekly payroll
• 12 hours of PTO per month
• 12 paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• No-Cost Employee Health Clinic
• Health Care Plan, Life Insurance, and Long-term Disability
• Deferred Compensation, Voluntary Benefits
• Retirement - Defined Contribution Plan

Salary : $60,791