Paralegal

Paralegal Position

The paralegal performs paraprofessional legal support work for attorneys in the City Attorney's Office. Work includes a variety of specialized tasks such as drafting contracts, litigation pleadings and other legal documents; performing legal research and preparation of case files, in matters related to procurement, real property, tort, corporations, government, labor, employment, workers' compensation, land use and zoning, construction law, constitutional law, and other typical paralegal duties as may be assigned, under the supervision of an attorney.

This position is part of the City's Emergency Management Team and, as such, shall be expected to perform all duties that are assigned during an emergency management operation. Any additional compensation, above the normal weekly salary shall be outlined by the City Manager in the City's Emergency Management Activation and Emergency Declaration. Failure to appear to perform emergency management assignment and to work assigned shifts as scheduled by the City's Emergency Management Director or individuals designated by the City Manager to assign such functions will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Education and experience requirements include an associate degree in paralegal studies from an approved paralegal program. Experience in local government law or related fields is preferred. Certifications, licenses, and registrations include Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) or Certified Paralegal (CP) certification preferred, Florida Registered Paralegal preferred, and Florida Notary License or ability to acquire within six (6) months.

Skills, knowledge, and abilities include the ability to read, analyze, and interpret work-related documents; proficient knowledge and utilization of Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with Florida court procedures and e-filing requirements; experience with drafting construction contracts using EJCDC (Engineers Joint Contract Documents Committee) contracts and AIA (American Institute of Architects) contracts; experience in procurement and contracting preferred; proficient in legal writing for the purpose of drafting pleadings, agreements, case summaries, memoranda, reports, and correspondence; ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; ability to comprehend and apply principles of mathematical concepts as applied to this position; ability to exercise judgment and discretion in applying and interpreting organizational rules, regulations, policies and procedures; ability to maintain legal confidentiality of all communications relating to City business; ability to conduct research, analyze, interpret and report findings and to make conclusions and recommendations that can be legally supported; ability to type at the prescribed rate of speed; ability to organize and coordinate copious file matters frequently requiring stringent deadlines that may require night and weekend work; thorough working knowledge of computer office software, including word processing, document management, electronic mail and financial programs; knowledge of spreadsheet and database programs preferred; proficient with electronic case management software; ability to perform routine to complex administrative and financial support activities; ability to use personal computers and other standard office machines and equipment.