Definition and Class Characteristics

INTERVIEWS FOR SELECTED CANDIDATES WILL BE HELD THE WEEK OF AUGUST 17, 2026.

The Public Defender's Office is seeking a Senior Legal Secretary to join our busy, fast-paced office to provide support in our commitment to justice. We are a dynamic and innovative team on a Constitutionally mandated mission to defend the rights of indigent individuals charged with a crime. Every day brings new challenges, meaningful work and the opportunity to help make a difference in the community in which we serve. The Senior Legal Secretary position plays a crucial role in daily operations, supporting all staff attorneys, interfacing with clients and outside consultants. Confidentiality, integrity, teamwork and excellent people skills are essential to this position. The ideal candidate must possess good organizational skills, a great work ethic, and a healthy sense of humor; must have experience using legal case management software (Karpel software a plus) and a possess a thorough knowledge of administrative and legal terminology, processes and procedures. Examples of Duties Proficiency in the use of technology is critical to this role, as the position is centered on electronic information exchanges between Justice Partners within Nevada County and other outside entities. The successful candidate must be comfortable with redacting various documents and viewing discovery media such as bodycam video. There will be coordination and collaboration with other departments within the HHSA Agency as well as the District Attorney's office and the Nevada County Superior Court. This position serves as lead in case opening and case file management and does entail serving as backup to receptionist, which includes receiving and screening telephone calls, emails, in-person visitors and setting client appointments. This role also includes assisting attorneys in some courtroom trial proceedings, such as preparing exhibits and documents, and providing administrative support throughout the trial process. Knowledge and Skills Required The successful candidate should be well-versed in the following additionally required attributes: Proven experience as a legal secretary with a focus on criminal law preferred Exceptional multitasking and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and delegate tasks as needed to meet strict deadlines Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to determine relevant information effectively Our full-time staff members enjoy an extensive benefit package including but not limited to a generous leave program, 11 standard holidays and 3 floating holidays, CalPERS retirement, medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses, and a deferred compensation plan including 401(a), 457(b), and Roth options. Nevada County is also a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program through the Department of Education. And because we care about work-life balance, we also offer flexible schedules and telework options to our staff depending on program needs! Why Join Nevada County? Nevada County is committed to fostering a supportive and high-performing workplace. Leadership prioritizes employee development, encourages open communication, and values the contributions of its staff. The organization is deeply connected to the community, actively listening and providing programs that promote safety, health, and well-being. Because here, your contribution, your worth, your ideas, all have a place! We thrive on transparent and ongoing communication through employee newsletters, social media and hosted sites. We strive to be the best version of ourselves through continuous improvement. We learn and grow as a team. Great discoveries happen when people from a diverse set of backgrounds come together. Best of all, you make a difference in the lives of our community every day. Bring your whole self to our place. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. Education and Experience Required Completion of the twelfth grade AND Two years of responsible legal secretarial and staff support experience comparable to the level of a Legal Secretary II with the County of Nevada. Read more about the Senior Legal Secretary job classification and minimum requirements here.