Unclassified - Modesto, CA

posted 3 months ago

Part-time,Full-time - Entry Level
Modesto, CA
51-100 employees

About the position

The Stanislaus County Public Defender's Office is dedicated to providing zealous representation to low-income individuals facing criminal charges. The Paralegal position is integral to this mission, as it involves performing paraprofessional technical legal work and assisting attorneys in processing routine case documentation. The role is designed to support the office's client-centered approach, ensuring that all clients are treated with autonomy, dignity, and respect throughout their legal journey. As a Paralegal, you will join a team of over 80 professionals, including attorneys and investigators, who are committed to fighting mass incarceration. The position is classified into three levels: Paralegal I, II, and III, each with increasing responsibilities and expectations. Paralegal I is an entry-level role where incumbents receive training and supervision, while Paralegal II requires more independence and may involve specialized assignments. Paralegal III encompasses advanced tasks, including outreach training and complex legal document preparation. The Paralegal will be responsible for conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, maintaining case files, and assisting in case preparation. The role may also involve filing documents with courts, responding to inquiries, and summarizing police reports and other relevant information. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. This position is part of the Classified Service of the County and may require overtime, standby, and weekend assignments as per the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Responsibilities

  • Perform simple legal research, including locating statutes and cases utilizing various legal research platforms.
  • Review reports, which may include law enforcement reports.
  • Draft motions, pleadings, and points and authorities under direct supervision.
  • Review basic legal documents and forms for completeness and conformance.
  • Prepare basic legal forms, correspondence, and reports.
  • File and retrieve a variety of documents with/from various courts.
  • Respond to simple requests for information and/or inquiries from interested parties.
  • Obtain, review, and summarize police reports, depositions, interrogatories, and other relevant information.
  • Update case and computer files.
  • Maintain law library, update legal references, and maintain inventory of materials.
  • Research, interpret, and apply laws, court decisions, and other legal authorities for use in preparation of case opinions and briefs.
  • Conduct interviews and maintain legal case files.
  • Prepare and respond to complex motions and pleadings.

Requirements

  • Certificate of completion from a recognized paralegal program or Associate's degree in paralegal studies; OR Successful completion of at least one year of law school; OR Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice or legal related field.
  • For Paralegal II: One (1) year experience equivalent to a Paralegal I in Stanislaus County; AND Certificate of completion from a recognized Paralegal Program or Associates degree in Paralegal studies.
  • For Paralegal III: One (1) year experience equivalent to a Paralegal II in Stanislaus County; AND Certificate of completion from a recognized Paralegal Program or Associate degree in Paralegal studies.

Nice-to-haves

  • Experience in criminal defense law.
  • Knowledge of legal drafting and litigation analysis skills.
  • Familiarity with accounting principles and practices.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Paid holidays and vacation time.
  • Retirement savings plan options.
  • Professional development opportunities.
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