RFQ - Contract Appellate Paralegals

Opportunity Summary OPD will contract with at least three experienced appellate paralegals to support small firms and solo practitioners providing indigent appellate defense. This role offers an opportunity to develop appellate practice expertise, work with diverse individuals, and work remotely from your own office. Period of Performance: July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. Compensation: $40 to $60 per hour based on experience (maximum $110,000 per contract). Responsibilities Assist appellate attorneys on assigned cases; Draft and file designations of clerk’s papers and supplemental designations as needed; Coordinate with court reporters and transcriptions to secure the verbatim report of proceeding for each assignment; Prepare and file the statement of arrangement for each assignment and supplementals as needed; Secure superior court case files when needed; Provide editing, proofreading, and formatting assistance for briefs and other pleadings; Track time worked per case assignment; Perform any other tasks reasonably related to assisting attorneys perfect the record and represent indigent persons in appellate actions. Qualifications Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies or related field; Bachelor Degree in Paralegal Studies or related field (preferred); National Certification (NFPA, NALA) (preferred); 3 years of experience working in a public defense office, law firm, or similar professional environment; Experience providing paralegal support to appellate attorneys (preferred); Demonstratable experience formatting briefs; Proven ability to use case management programs; Professional competency with Microsoft Office applications; Excellent task management and communication skills; Willingness to participate in professional learning opportunities and cooperate with OPD technical assistance resources. EEO Statement The Washington State Office of Public Defense vigorously pursues diversity in the workforce. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ, persons with disabilities, formerly incarcerated individuals, and military veterans are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr