PERM Paralegal

Division of Legal Services (DLS) has one opening for a Paralegal within the Kansas City Metro - Western Litigation Unit .

Individual(s) selected for this position may receive a higher rate based on a pay differential (e.g. shift, or time-of-service pay).

Job Location: This position is located at the Fletcher Daniels Office Building ; The Department of Social Services partners with families and communities to protect children, rehabilitate youth and move families to self-sufficiency so that Missourians can lead safe, healthy and productive lives.

Do you want to make a difference in the lives of Missouri children and families? Join our team of professionals providing legal support to attorneys that represent the Department of Social Services (DSS) in court, with special focus on permanency including reunification with a parent, guardianship, termination of parental rights/adoption, and other planned permanent living arrangements. At DLS, you’ll enjoy collaborating as part of a diverse team of attorneys and legal support staff located in offices all around the state.

What you’ll do: This is a second-level legal support position responsible for providing complex legal support to attorneys and for supervising legal support staff. The duties of this position include supervising a team of 2-9 legal assistants, performing legal research, drafting legal documents, preparing for hearings and trial, and corresponding on behalf of regional litigation attorneys. Under the guidance and direction of an attorney, a Paralegal may perform research, file legal documents, facilitate case management, and draft legal instruments and correspondence. This position ensures that lower-level support work is done in compliance with standardized procedures.

This position will require regular in-state daytime travel. Although at times more frequent travel may be necessary, this position is anticipated to require full-day or overnight travel approximately 3-5 days per month, to include meetings with the DLS regional and central offices.

or 5 or more years of experience in a legal environment.

Proficient knowledge of computer information systems, software (such as Word, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat), and office technology required. Experience performing legal research through LexisNexis, Westlaw, or another legal research platform is preferred, but not required. Preference will be given to those with prior experience providing direct legal support.

The State of Missouri offers an excellent benefits package that includes a defined pension plan, generous amounts of leave and holiday time, and eligibility for health insurance coverage. To help demonstrate the value of working for the State of Missouri, we have created an interactive Total Compensation Calculator. Application Deadline October 5, 2026

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