Domestic Violence Paralegal

$79,943 - $98,316/Yr

City of Auburn - Auburn, WA

Full-time - Mid Level

Auburn, WA

Justice, Public Order, and Safety Activities

About the position

The City of Auburn is seeking a dedicated Domestic Violence Paralegal to join its legal department, which plays a crucial role in supporting the city’s prosecution team. This position is integral to the preparation and prosecution of criminal cases, particularly those involving domestic violence. The paralegal will serve as a vital liaison between city prosecutors and victims, ensuring that victims receive the necessary support and information throughout the legal process. The role requires a high level of professionalism and the ability to maintain composure when interacting with victims and other stakeholders in potentially challenging situations. In this position, the paralegal will assist city prosecutors with various tasks, including conducting victim and witness interviews, maintaining contact with victims, and coordinating with law enforcement and treatment agencies. The paralegal will also be responsible for trial preparation, which includes issuing subpoenas and organizing witness interviews. A strong understanding of legal terminology and procedures is essential, as the paralegal will need to navigate court rules and municipal operations effectively. The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a commitment to confidentiality. The position may also involve supporting other civil and criminal cases as needed, making adaptability and a broad knowledge base important traits for success in this role. The City of Auburn offers a flexible or partial hybrid work schedule, depending on the needs of the office and the successful completion of a probation period.

Responsibilities

• Assist the City's prosecution staff with victim and/or witness interviews and maintaining contact with domestic violence case victims and witnesses.
• Consult with management, communicate with the court, police, jail personnel, and/or private treatment agencies to obtain and relay information related to pending domestic violence and victim-related criminal cases.
• Assist prosecutors with trial preparation, including issuing subpoenas, contacting witnesses, and coordinating witness interviews.
• Assess the interests and needs of victims of domestic violence and other victim-related criminal cases, providing appropriate legal victim support, including educating victims about the prosecution process and attending court hearings as directed.
• Maintain knowledge of legal terminology, documents, and procedures relevant to court proceedings, administrative proceedings, municipal organizational structure and operations, and court rules.

Requirements

• A High School Diploma or equivalent supplemented by two (2) years of college-level coursework in sociology, psychology, law enforcement, or other closely related field AND three (3) years of experience in a legal office environment.
• Valid state driver's license without impending loss required at time of appointment.
• Successful completion of fingerprinting and background check.
• Completion of the CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Services) Security Certification Test to access sensitive information.

Nice-to-haves

• Graduated from an accredited paralegal program.
• One year of criminal or civil paralegal experience.
• A Notary Public License.

Benefits

• Wellness program
• Health savings account
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Vision insurance
• Paid sick time