Nicollet County Government Center - Saint Peter, MN
posted 2 months ago
This position assists attorneys by performing legal and administrative work that supports the Office's mission to seek justice and promote public safety by fairly and effectively prosecuting crimes, as well as representing the legal interests of the County. The role of a Paralegal in the Nicollet County Attorney's Office is crucial, as it involves a variety of tasks that ensure the smooth operation of legal proceedings and the effective management of cases. Paralegals are expected to prepare legal pleadings, organize and prepare discovery materials, draft correspondence, coordinate schedules for attorneys, and maintain file organization. This position offers opportunities to work on diverse legal matters, providing a dynamic work environment that is both challenging and rewarding. The Paralegal will perform independent legal work, which includes drafting pleadings, correspondence, and statements, as well as transcribing correspondence and distributing mail. General administrative support to the County Attorney is also a key responsibility, along with maintaining tracking of cases within the office. Daily tasks include maintaining the court calendar for district court, scheduling appointments, and tracking deadlines to advise attorneys, social workers, and law enforcement. The Paralegal will also initiate contact with county employees, outside agencies, attorneys, and the public to gather information necessary for preparing cases for hearings or trials. In preparation for contested hearings and trials, the Paralegal will organize and review files, assist the assigned attorney in collecting documents, and secure witnesses. This includes preparing summaries of file issues, evidence, exhibits, and witnesses for complex hearings and trials. Weekly responsibilities involve reviewing documents and evidence for necessary redactions and preparing court orders. The Paralegal will also handle subpoenas and notify interested parties about hearings and trials, advising them on criminal proceedings. Additionally, the role includes performing receptionist duties on a rotating basis, which involves answering phones and greeting individuals. The Paralegal serves as a liaison for the County Attorney's Office with the Technology Department, requiring knowledge of computer and software capabilities, and is responsible for implementing County Attorney recordkeeping software, providing training, and maintaining library material subscriptions.