Legal Assistant II; Limited

Overview

MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in Oregon, with offices in Multnomah and Washington counties.

Join our dynamic team and be part of MPD’s commitment to excellence in client representation and to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit:

MPD is currently searching for a Legal Assistant II (Limited Duration) to join our Multnomah County Office. The Legal Assistant II position is a customer service role providing administrative support to the defense team. They are responsible for maintaining accurate records and serving as a liaison between clients, attorneys, clients’ families, and elements of the criminal justice system. As appropriate, they may assess client needs and support the coordination of necessary services with other members of the holistic defense team.

The work requires a general knowledge of the organization’s operations. Ideal candidates will have a strong work ethic, clear oral and written communication skills, and a commitment to indigent defense excellence. The Legal Assistant II receives general supervision from the Chief Legal Assistant.

Position pays $21.70 - $33.31/hour, dependent on experience. Staff are members of a union. This is a limited-duration, full-time, in-office, non-exempt position. In addition to compensation, MPD offers the following benefits:

Benefits

• Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental and Vision – 100% employer paid for employee only coverage
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid
• 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of annual salary with full vesting after 5 years of service
• PTO – 24 hours upon hire and accrues monthly to 80 hours and increases to 120 hours starting at 24 months
• 10 paid holidays + 2 Personal Equity Days
• 4 Mental Health Days per year
• Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after six months

Position Qualifications

Position Preferences

• Ability to lead by example in handling assignments and in treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system
• Ability to testify in court without impeachment (may preclude employees convicted of certain crimes within prior 15 years)
• Maintains confidentiality of agency records
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Fluent in Spanish highly preferred

• MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful
• Work is generally sedentary, in an office setting, courthouse, field location or jail facility
• There are frequent requirements for some physical activity such as carrying boxes of records up to 10 pounds, stooping to extract records from files, or carrying and setting up display easels in court

• Submit a current resume and cover letter detailing your interest in the position and in supporting public defense work at MPD
• Internal applicants should apply via the Career Center on ADP
• Applications accepted through February 2, 2026

MPD values diversity and supports a culture of dignity and respect for all staff. MPD is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: MPD provides reasonable accommodations to anyone whose disability prevents completing an application or participating in recruitment. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance.