Defender Association Of Philadelphia - Philadelphia, PA
posted 2 months ago
Looking to make a difference! Become a Defender! The Municipal Court Pre-trial Services Unit (MCPTS U) focuses on reducing mass incarceration by supporting clients before trial through a variety of diversion and other programs. The paralegal in the Pretrial Unit assigned to Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD)/Domestic Violence (DV) Diversion handles a wide-ranging set of tasks to assist the supervisors and attorneys in case preparation and file management. This position works closely with the supervisors to ensure accurate scheduling, track caseloads, and manage unit tasks. The paralegal acts as a liaison between supervisors, attorneys, clients, and court administration to effect accurate communication and results. The paralegal will maintain all legal files, coordinate the referral of cases to the District Attorney's Office for ARD and DV Diversion, and update the database and DCM with referrals, rejections, approvals, and court dates. They will prepare active cases for court appearances, including preparing referral forms for evaluations and treatment programs. The role also involves corresponding with clients regarding the completion of evaluations, scheduling reviews of ARD Offer Packets, and ensuring compliance with treatment programs. The paralegal will prepare and send ARD Offer Packets to clients and the District Attorney's Office, monitor the e-filing of offers, assist attorneys in the courtroom, and oversee the DV Diversion expungement process for successful graduates. Additionally, the paralegal will answer questions from clients and attorneys, take notes, and mark files with appropriate notations. They will assist with the Drexel Research Project on the costs of ARD, cross-train in the duties of other MCPTU paralegals, and perform other duties as assigned. This position is integral to the mission of the Defender Association, which is committed to providing high-quality defense to all individuals, regardless of income, facing criminal charges.