CPS Legal Assistant

Summary/Objective

Assists CPS team/attorneys with research, trial preparation, discovery, drafting of documents for submission to court, and other legal assistant and administration functions for the CPS Division. This position handles protective orders and CPS cases, including orders to aid in investigation, orders to participate, and removals. This is a full-time position with hours typically Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm. Salary range is from $44,695 to $50,683 annually. Benefits include county health benefits, retirement, holiday pay, and vacation and sick leave.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to:
Jennifer Barfield
100 N. Broadway, 4th Floor
Tyler, TX 75702
Jbarfield@smith-county.com

Duties and Responsibilities

• Draft, prepare, and review pleadings, motions, orders, subpoenas, relinquishments, and protection orders and various other documents to file with County or District court and serve upon opposing parties.
• Organize, and maintain CPS litigation files, including pleadings, motions, and checklists.
• Maintain CPS docket and calendar of attorneys noting deadlines for responsive pleadings and motions, court appearances, and other important deadlines as well as send reminders of hearings and deadlines.
• Schedule mediations, requested hearings, trials, and settlement conferences as requested.
• Assist with witnesses, coordinate the collection and review of witness files including organizing, summarizing, and analyzing factual data collected. Participate in meetings with victims/witnesses and complete detailed notes for attorney.
• Assist with and coordinate discovery process to ensure that all relevant information requested is provided to opposing parties and that the CPS attorneys have the information requested.
• Assist attorney at trial and with hearing preparation by maintaining a list of exhibits as identified, offered into evidence, and noting developments of cases.
• Communicate with CPS, courts, and other parties involved in the case, as well as respond to emails in a timely and professional manner.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word & Excel.

• Candidate must be dependable, punctual, organized, self-motivated, detail oriented, and a team player.

• Must have the ability to multi-task in a fast-paced office and be able to work under pressure while demonstrating skills in effective oral and written communication.

Education and Experience

High School diploma or equivalent.
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Must be physically able to lift and carry at least 40 pounds, daily sitting, standing, walking, stooping, bending, pulling, reaching and lifting of items.