Public Defender - Legal Clerk

Sumter County is Currently Seeking a Legal Clerk for the Public Defender's Office
Compensation: Starting Salary: $30,000 Annually

Position Summary
The Legal Clerk provides administrative and legal support to attorneys within the Public Defender's Office. This position plays an important role in the day-to-day management of criminal case files by coordinating schedules, maintaining records, preparing legal documents, and ensuring accurate case information is maintained.

The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, able to maintain strict confidentiality, and committed to providing professional customer service while supporting the efficient operation of the office.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Provides administrative and clerical support to assigned attorney(s).
• Schedules meetings, court appearances, docket reviews, and other legal proceedings.
• Maintains attorney calendars and monitors case-related deadlines.
• Organizes, maintains, and updates paper and electronic case files.
• Assists with client correspondence and notifications regarding court appearances.
• Performs data entry and maintains accurate records within electronic case management systems.
• Conducts research on the status of criminal cases and assists attorneys with case preparation.
• Maintains confidential legal records and sensitive information.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience performing secretarial or administrative duties in a professional office environment required.
• Legal office or judicial experience preferred.
• Candidates with a Paralegal Certificate or an Associate Degree in Legal Studies will receive preferred consideration.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of legal terminology, court procedures, and legal documentation.
• Ability to organize work, prioritize multiple assignments, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office, and electronic case management software.
• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with attorneys, court personnel, clients, and the public.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and organized in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing administrative work.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment, including computers, telephones, and printers.
• Ability to occasionally stand, walk, bend, and lift or move office materials weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Ability to perform repetitive hand and keyboard movements.

Work Environment

• Primarily performed in a professional office environment.
• Frequent interaction with attorneys, court personnel, clients, and the public.
• Requires regular use of computers and other office equipment.
• Work involves managing confidential and sensitive legal information.

Benefits
Sumter County offers a competitive benefits package for eligible full-time employees. Benefits may include health, dental, and vision insurance, participation in the South Carolina Retirement System, paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, life insurance, employee assistance programs, and other County-sponsored benefits.

Benefit eligibility, coverage, and participation are subject to applicable plan provisions, County policies, and eligibility requirements. Sumter County reserves the right to modify, amend, or discontinue benefits in accordance with applicable laws and policies.

Request Assistance
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request reasonable accommodation if you are unable to access job openings or apply for a position. Please contact Human Resources at (803) 774-2824 or nmason@sumtercountysc.gov.

Reasonable Accommodation
Applicants with disabilities may request accommodations at any time during the hiring process.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Sumter County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination.