PARALEGAL SERIES (Paralegal I & II)

$42,056 - $75,820/Yr

State of Maryland

Full-time - Entry Level

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Paralegal I/II position at the Maryland Office of the Public Defender (MOPD) involves providing essential support to Assistant Public Defenders through legal research, document preparation, and client interaction. This role is crucial in assisting with case management and ensuring that legal processes are followed efficiently, particularly for clients who may be experiencing trauma or mental health challenges. The position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist Assistant Public Defenders with docket preparation and legal research.
• Meet with clients and witnesses under pressure to gather information.
• Obtain documents through the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA) or legal discovery process.
• Prepare files on cases and draft legal documents for court.
• File documents in court and assist with pre-hearing preparation.
• Review court and trial files and prepare correspondence.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate.
• Two years of experience as a legal assistant or legal secretary performing legal research or preparing legal documents (Paralegal I).
• Three years of experience for Paralegal II.
• Knowledge of Electronic Data Collection Systems and Electronic Filing (MDEC).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of performing legal research using Westlaw or other legal research applications.
• Experience performing computerized investigations and background checks using programs such as CLEAR or Accurint.
• Experience working in the criminal justice or court systems with clients experiencing trauma.
• Experience interviewing people and documenting the interview.
• Interest in assisting individuals with cognitive or mental health challenges.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid holidays
• Paid leave
• Retirement plan options