Paralegal Specialist

Job Duties

This a federal grant-funded position and, by law, applicants must be age 55 or older to be considered.

This position will support the Department of the Interior, Office of the Secretary, DAS-Administrative Services, Office of Hearings and Appeals, Probate Hearings Division. Enrollees will use their legal and administrative skills to assist Supervisory Judges in their work probating the estates of Indians who die owning interests in property held in trust by the U.S. government.

Duties and Responsibilities

Duty*

Review case files assigned for dockets to ensure completeness and accuracy. If information is missing, initiate action to seek information that will complete the case file. Identify potential complications in the case, including but not limited to discrepancies with family information, inventory issues, and potential will disputes. Research related cases to obtain verified family histories and confirm the information of potential heirs.

Percentage* 40%

Duty*

Use the docketing system to update and maintain the procedural status of each assigned case, and to schedule hearings in coordination with the assigned judge.

Percentage* 5%

Duty*

Prepare notices of probate hearings to be sent to all interested parties, as well as combined hearing notices that are posted. Assist the judge at hearings by recording the proceedings, taking attendance and verifying current addresses of participants, handling exhibits and other duties as needed by the judge.

Percentage* 10%

Duty*

Review case record upon completion of the hearing to assist with the judge’s determination as to the sufficiency of evidence for a final decision. Works with the judge to schedule supplemental hearings if necessary and prepare documents to provide opportunities for a party to renounce interest or to otherwise obtain any necessary additional information.

Percentage* 10%

Duty*

Draft probate decisions or orders, and review draft decisions and orders prepared by others for errors.

Percentage* 25%

Duty*

Provide guidance and assistance to legal assistants and back up legal assistants with tasks such as scanning and mailings, as needed.

Percentage* 5%

Duty*

Prepare case-related correspondence. Assist the office with administrative duties as needed or assigned, including timekeeping, purchasing, and bill-paying.

Percentage* 5%

Minimum Education Required

Associate's Degree in Paralegal Studies, or Paralegal Certificate.

Minimum Experience Required

Minimum 5 years experience in Paralegal work plus education requirement described above.

Shift

First (Day)

Number of Openings

2

Veterans Encouraged to Apply

Yes

Physical Required

No

Compensation

$30.00 - $30.00 / Hourly

Postal Code

55437

Job Type

Part Time

Place of Work

On-site

Requisition ID

PMBOHA-001-001

Job Benefits

Accrued sick time.