Paralegal

Overview Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. MOPD is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, physical or mental disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status or genetic information. Applicants must be able to communicate effectively with clients and visitors and perform tasks in a fast-paced environment. Applicants must be able to work in various positions. MOPD provides equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs and activities, by modifying or adjusting the job application process or the job or work environment to enable consideration for the position, allow performance of essential functions, and enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment unless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship. Applicants must be able to operate a personal computer and other office equipment and have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Human Resources Representative specified in the posting. The Office of the Public Defender is seeking detail oriented applicants with strong interpersonal communication, legal research, organizational, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and high proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook, to fill full-time Paralegal I/II positions. Position Duties Provide intermediate and full performance level support to an attorney, including legal research, investigations, document gathering, and case preparation. Review files, apply Maryland case law, prepare and file various legal documents, and conduct pretrial preparation and client/witness interviews. Manage service of legal documents and assist with case investigation; perform clerical tasks as needed. Maintain substantial client contact with indigent defendants and their families in office, court, detention centers, hospitals, and state prisons. Do not supervise other staff in these classifications. Minimum Qualifications Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate. Experience: Paralegal I – two years of experience as a legal assistant or legal secretary performing legal research or preparing legal documents; Paralegal II – three years of such experience. Notes: substitutions include 30 credit hours or a certificate in paralegal studies, 30 credit hours from an accredited law school, year-for-year substitutions for experience, and substitution of US Armed Forces paralegal service time as applicable. Desired or Preferred Qualifications Basic knowledge of criminal law terminology and procedures; familiarity with Westlaw or other legal research tools. Interest in working with underprivileged defendants and their families; familiarity with individuals with cognitive or mental health concerns. Exceptional organizational, critical thinking and problem-solving skills; experience organizing and reviewing body camera footage. Experience using Microsoft Office software products. Licenses, Registrations and Certifications Employees in this classification may be assigned duties requiring operation of a motor vehicle. A valid motor vehicle operator’s license in Maryland is required for such duties. Selection Process Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be admitted to the examination. Candidates will be ranked as BEST QUALIFIED, BETTER QUALIFIED, or QUALIFIED and placed on an eligible list for at least one year. Examination Process The examination will consist of a rating of education, training and experience related to the position requirements. You may be required to complete a qualifications supplement, or the rating may be based on your application. Provide complete and accurate information on your application and report all related experience and education. Benefits STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS Further Instructions Online applications preferred. Please fax paper applications and questionnaires to the provided number. For inquiries, contact the Office of the Public Defender, Human Resources Division, Baltimore, MD, or call the listed numbers. Include your name, identification number, and job announcement number on documentation. As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who reflect the State’s diversity. Veterans, people with disabilities, and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr