Legal Assistant

$57,492 - $69,876/Yr

City Of Aberdeen - Aberdeen, WA

Full-time - Entry Level

Aberdeen, WA

Utilities

About the position

The Legal Administrative Assistant plays a crucial role in providing delegated legal work and administrative support within the Office of the Corporation Counsel. This position involves assisting with the maintenance of City Code, providing civil legal assistance, and supporting criminal legal assistant duties through cross-training. The Legal Assistant is responsible for office and records management, coordinating legal services for the Mayor, City Council, Municipal Court, and various departments, boards, and commissions. The role requires a high level of independence, as the employee will perform complex legal administrative tasks and manage legal office projects under the general supervision of attorneys. The Legal Assistant must exercise independent judgment and possess strong time management skills, as well as a high degree of discretion in coordinating all activities required of a legal office. The position frequently involves executing specific legal work that requires extensive knowledge of legal concepts, which would otherwise be performed by the attorneys. A clear understanding and commitment to employee confidentiality, the attorney-client privilege, and excellent customer service are essential due to the frequent interactions with the public and various officials. Key responsibilities include preparing initial documents for criminal and civil cases, maintaining case dockets and files, drafting and maintaining records of Inter Local Agreements, and managing correspondence related to legal matters. The Legal Assistant will also be responsible for maintaining the departmental filing system, organizing electronic and hard copy files, and ensuring compliance with public records laws. This position requires a proactive approach to managing the calendar of events for attorneys, scheduling meetings, and making travel arrangements as necessary. Additionally, participation in professional association functions is expected, along with performing other related duties as required.

Responsibilities

• Assists with City Code maintenance and provides civil legal assistance.
• Coordinates and provides legal assistant services to the Mayor, City Council, Municipal Court, and other departments.
• Prepares initial documents related to criminal and civil cases.
• Maintains case docket and files, including evidence and discovery.
• Communicates with witnesses, police, attorneys, and defendants as needed.
• Maintains and updates template forms for contracts and agreements.
• Drafts and maintains records of Inter Local Agreements.
• Receives and screens incoming calls and visitors, providing information to the public.
• Maintains budget records and prepares vouchers for payment of bills.
• Keeps calendar of events and schedules meetings for attorneys.

Requirements

• High school degree or GED and two years of college (criminal justice, business, paralegal courses preferred).
• Five years of legal or administrative professional experience in a court or legal office.
• Knowledge of Washington State codes and principles, including tort law, criminal law, and municipal law.
• Familiarity with the Public Records Act and legal terminology.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive materials.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to coordinate scheduling.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with legal research and legal writing.
• Knowledge of law office management principles and procedures.
• Familiarity with Washington State court rules and deadlines.

Benefits

• Salary range of $4,791.00 - $5,823.00 Monthly.
• Full-time position with potential for career advancement.