Paralegal I

Job Purpose The Paralegal I, under occasional supervision, performs legal research in accordance with preliminary instructions as to methods or approach, source materials available, policy and precedent of the office, and works assisting the Department of Social Services Legal Unit. The ideal candidate will have a working knowledge of case, statutory, and common law with a working knowledge of judicial and quasi-judicial procedures and the rules of evidence. This position is in a fast paced, effort intensive legal environment. The position requires someone who can work with minimum supervision. There is access to highly confidential information and some subject matter that may be disturbing. Responsibilities Performs legal research in accordance with preliminary instructions as to methods or approach, source material available, and policy and precedent of the office. Summarizes facts and evidence and prepares legal instruments. Abides by office practices and procedures; thorough knowledge and ability to use correct grammar, vocabulary and spelling. Gathers and composes a variety of materials from a variety of independent sources. Interprets and explains policies, regulations and programs. Communicates clearly and logically in oral and written form. Effectively communicates in person and by telephone; plans and coordinates a volume and variety of appointments, meetings, and conferences. Exercises judgment and discretion in problem situations independently; answers inquiries independently and coordinates a variety of resources in acquiring information. Maintains and meets rigorous time mandates. Maintains effective working relationships with persons contacted in the course of work. Qualifications Graduation from an accredited school for paralegal training and one year of experience as a paralegal, or graduation from a four‑year college or university with a degree in English, Journalism, or a degree directly related to the area assigned and one year of substantive paralegal experience; or graduation from high school and five years of paralegal experience performing delegated, substantive legal work, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Prior computer skills experience with Microsoft Windows. License/Credentials: Possession of a valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle. Skills & Abilities Accountability – Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions. Accuracy – Ability to perform work accurately and thoroughly. Adaptable – Ability to frequently adjust to changes. Communication, Oral – Ability to communicate effectively with others using the spoken word. Communication, Written – Ability to communicate in writing clearly and concisely. Confidentiality – Ability to distinguish confidential information and maintain the sensitive nature of the information. Honesty – Ability to be truthful, maintain a high level of confidentiality and be seen as credible in the workplace. Integrity – Trustworthiness to a degree that one is incapable of being false to a trust, responsibility or pledge. Judgment – Ability to use good judgment and discretion as it relates to following policies and procedures. Safety‑Minded – Creating a safe work environment; managing risks; reducing exposure liabilities. Teamwork – Ability to work with others successfully and productively for the common cause and desired end goal. Physical Demands Stand – Frequently. Walk – Occasionally. Sit – Frequently. Manually Manipulate – Constantly. Reach Outward – Frequently. Reach Above Shoulder – Occasionally. Climb – Occasionally. Crawl – Not Applicable. Squat or Kneel – Occasionally. Bend – Occasionally. Talk/Hear – Constantly. See – Constantly. Taste/Smell – Occasionally. Lift/Carry 10 lbs. or less – Frequently. Lift/Carry 11–20 lbs. – Occasionally. Lift/Carry 21–50 lbs. – Occasionally. Lift/Carry 51–100 lbs. – Occasionally. Lift/Carry Over 100 lbs. – Not Applicable. Push/Pull 12 lbs. or less – Frequently. Push/Pull 13–25 lbs. – Occasionally. Push/Pull 26–40 lbs. – Occasionally. Push/Pull 41–100 lbs. – Occasionally. Vision (Near, Distance, Peripheral) – Not applicable. Work Environment Standard office environment. #J-18808-Ljbffr