Compare your current skills to what this opportunity needs—we'll show you what you already have and what could strengthen your application.
Job Description
Perform a broad range of paralegal duties as requested/assigned for the City Attorney's Office.
CIVIL DIVISION
Perform legal research (both computerized and non-computerized). Participate with attorneys in various municipal law specialty areas. Draft research memoranda. Assist in the preparation of City Council agenda items. Assist in the preparation, drafting, and review of ordinances, resolutions, and policies. Coordinate and conduct the legal review of contract drafting, review, and signature processes. Assist in the preparation of Charter Commission agenda items, including meeting minutes. Assist attorneys with office management and administrative tasks.
CRIMINAL DIVISION
Obtain police reports, witness statements, medical records and other documents and materials necessary for trial preparation. Acquire and prepare evidentiary documents and other court documents. Coordinate and conduct the preparation for Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) hearings. Compile data and prepare reports. Respond to correspondence and telephone calls from attorneys and member of the general public. Interact with law enforcement, other criminal justice personnel and members of the public. Conduct defendant criminal history searches. Cooperate with prosecutors in criminal trial preparation. Provide backup support to other staff in the Legal Department.
Minimum Qualifications:
(expected to have to enter job) Bachelor's degree in a related field Paralegal Certification from an accredited program or two years of full-time comparable experience.
Competencies:
Technical Expertise Ability to: Apply knowledge of the principles, terms, and procedures of criminal and civil law, including federal and state statutes, municipal ordinances, and court rules governing procedures and evidence, to identify and resolve complex problems. Apply understanding of the priorities, goals, and objectives of the assigned division. Understand court systems and judicial processes and apply this knowledge to plan, coordinate, and implement special programs and projects. Utilize job-required software applications, internet resources, and department-specific procedures to complete daily assignments. Perform work with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Identify risk and liability issues and refer to the most complex matters to management. Decision Making and Problem Solving Ability to: Plan, coordinate, monitor, and oversee staff work associated with complex projects and programs, including managing multiple projects simultaneously. Independently prioritize personal workload and the work of others. Gather, analyze, and interpret complex information and effectively resolve challenges. Make decisions independently and contribute to group decision-making processes. Conduct workflow analysis and utilize appropriate materials, methods, and resources to complete complex assignments. Coach and support others in problem solving and decision making. Develop and apply metrics to measure success within an assigned area of responsibility.
Communication Ability to:
Effectively listen, speak, write, and interact tactfully within a work group and with the public. Produce clear, effective, and professional legal reports, documents, and correspondence. Process, prepare, and draft a wide variety of complex legal forms and documents. Collaborate with citizens, vendors, and City departmental staff. Follow complex oral and written instructions from supervisors and staff. Apply interviewing and investigative techniques and methods. Recognize conflicting or contradictory statements and evaluate the credibility of witnesses. Organize information and handle confidential and sensitive materials appropriately. Teamwork, Leadership, and Management Ability to: Apply understanding of departmental mission and vision in daily work. Remain flexible and adapt to changing work assignments. Respond effectively to complex issues. Build and maintain effective working relationships across diverse individuals, groups, and organizations. Model leadership behaviors including punctuality, adaptability, and accountability. Support departmental and City goals by managing work quality, team efforts, and professional conduct. Foster a positive work environment by recognizing team strengths, sharing knowledge, and building trust. Lead assigned tasks and support team success through collaboration, inclusivity, and respect.
Customer Service Ability to:
Promote customer service excellence through effective service delivery strategies and continuous improvement. Support staff and management in identifying customer needs and enhancing service quality. Respond promptly and effectively to complex or difficult customer concerns, resolving issues as they arise. Communicate and uphold customer service standards and quality expectations. Work respectfully with diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities and those whose first language is not English.
