Legal Assistant II

MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971. Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services. MPD was the first public defender organization under this system. MPD is the largest single provider of trial level public defense services in the state of Oregon, with offices in both Multnomah and Washington counties. Join our dynamic team and a part of MPD’s commitment to being a leader in public defense which includes not just excellence in client representation but a strong commitment to hiring and developing a professional staff of defenders. For more information on MPD and our work visit: MPD is currently searching for a Legal Assistant II to join our Multnomah County Office. TheLegalAssistant position is an integral part of the defense team, providing administrative support to attorneys and maintaining regular contact with clients and their families. They are responsible for processing and organizing case material (including evidence, reports, and other records) and serve as liaison between maintaining accurate records and serve as a liaison between clients, attorneys, client families, and elements of the criminal justice system. As appropriate, they may assess client needs and support the coordination of necessary services with other members of the holistic defense team. Ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, clear oral and written communication skills, the ability to multi-task, and a commitment to indigent defense excellence. The Legal Assistant II receives general supervision from the Chief Legal Assistant. This position pays $21.92/hr - $33.64/hr. Staff are members of a union. This is a full-time, in-office, non-exempt position . In addition to compensation, MPD also offers: Medical (choice of PPO or HDHP), Dental and Vision Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) Basic Life, STD, LTD and AD&D – 100% employer paid 401(K) – MPD will contribute 6% of your annual salary with full vesting after the completion of 5 years of service PTO – 24 hours upon hire and accrues monthly to 80 hours, increasing to 120 hours starting at 24 months 10 paid holidays + 2Personal Equity Days 4 Mental Health Days per year Sick Leave – 48 hours upon hire + accrues monthly after the completion of six months of employment Position Qualifications High school diploma or GED Education or experience working in the legal or social service field. Strong verbal and written communication skills Excellent organizational and time management skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to meet deadlines Ability to travel to and work within criminal justice system facilities Position Preferences Ability to lead by example in the handling of work assignments, as well as in the treatment of staff and others in the criminal justice system. Ability to testify in court without impeachment (may preclude employees and applicants convicted of certain crimes within the prior 15 years). Ability to maintain confidentiality of agency records. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Fluent in Spanish highly preferred. Work Environment: MPD fosters a work environment that is friendly, cooperative, and respectful. Work is generally sedentary, in an office setting, courthouse, or jail facility. There are frequent requirements for some physical activity such as carrying boxes of records weighing up to 10 pounds, stooping to extract records from files, or carrying and setting up display easels in court. Application Process Posting will close on or before August21, 2026 Diversity and Inclusion: At MPD, we do not just accept difference; we value it and support it to create a culture of dignity and respect forall our staff. Equal Opportunity Employer MPDis proud tobean Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, military status, nationaloriginor any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or applicable local law. Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act: We gladly provide reasonable accommodation to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing an application or participating in this recruitment process. Please contact Human Resources in advance to request assistance. #J-18808-Ljbffr