Legal Assistant; Criminal Division

Overview

Under the direction of an attorney, performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible and would perform in the absence of the paralegal; applies knowledge of law and legal procedures in providing direct assistance to attorneys, clients, and the courts.

• Considerable knowledge of the judicial system and court procedures.
• Considerable knowledge of legal terminology and substantive and procedural law.
• Knowledge of investigative and research techniques.
• Knowledge of law office methods, procedures, and protocols.
• Knowledge of legal research and litigation.
• Knowledge of and ability to maintain confidentiality rules.
• Knowledge of current discovery laws and rules with attention to digital evidence gathering, retrieval, storage, and production, and maintaining the integrity of same.
• Problem identification, analysis, and evaluation skills.
• Skill in investigation, organization and research.
• Skill in the use of modern office equipment and computer applications including database record keeping systems, word processing, case management software, and spreadsheets.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to prepare complex legal documents and identify facts and issues, which may require further legal evaluation.
• Ability to make fine visual distinctions upon proofreading written documents and viewing information on a computer screen.
• Ability to assemble, retrieve, and replace files.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with judiciary, defense bar, law enforcement, County officials, representatives of other agencies, and the general public.
• Ability to foster a collaborative and professional work environment.

• Graduation from high school, and
• Successful completion of a two year paralegal training program, and
• One year of experience in paralegal, criminal justice, or related field, or
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• A criminal background check is required.
• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.
• May be required to work weekends and/or holidays at the Polk County Jail.

Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Polk County believes that…