Paralegal

Work Unit Overview:

The Custer County Attorney's Office provides legal services to the county, supporting criminal, civil and administrative matters with professionalism and integrity. Staff members, including the paralegal, perform moderately complex and varied duties requiring knowledge of legal principles, terminology and procedures. The office is committed to maintaining high standards of confidentiality, accuracy and effective communication while collaborating with law enforcement, public agencies and the community to ensure justice and compliance with applicable laws. District Court The office engages with District Court on a wide range of legal matters, including serious criminal cases, mental health proceedings, guardianships, juvenile justice and dependency/neglect cases. This work involves collaboration with law enforcement, mental health professionals, social workers and various agencies to ensure justice and compliance with legal standards. Justice Court The office supports Justice Court in handling criminal cases at the local level. This includes working with investigating officers, attorneys and community members to resolve legal disputes and uphold county ordinances and state criminal code. Bad Checks The office addresses financial offenses such as bad checks, working with merchants, victims and law enforcement to resolve the cases through satisfaction and prosecution. Board of County Commissioners/Department Heads The office provides legal guidance and support to county departments and commissioners, assisting with policy development, drafting legal documents and conducting research to facilitate effective county governance. Beyond courtroom, the office maintains investigative files and supports administrative operations. It also acts as a liaison with other county departments, external agencies and the public, ensuring smooth legal and administrative processes.

Job Summary:

The Paralegal in the Custer County Attorney's Office assists attorneys in legal research, trial preparation and the drafting of legal documents for criminal, civil and administrative matters. This position requires knowledge of legal principles, terminology and procedures, as well as attention to detail, accuracy and confidentiality. The paralegal manages case files, coordinates with law enforcement and public agencies and communicates effectively with the public, witnesses and victims. The role demands strong organizational skills, the ability to make sound judgments and a commitment to supporting the office's mission of justice and compliance with applicable laws. Essential Functions (Major Duties or Responsibilities): These duties are the essential functions and are not all-inclusive of all duties that the incumbent performs. Paralegal operates under the direction and supervision of the County Attorney and/or Deputy County Attorney, who reviews and approves all legal documents and work product. Draft and upon attorney approval, files a wide range of legal documents (e.g. charging documents, motions, orders, petitions, subpoenas, warrants, plea agreements, briefs, affidavits, petitions to revoke conditions of release or probation) for criminal, civil, juvenile, mental health, guardianship or dependency/neglect cases. Proofread and ensure accuracy and compliance with legal standards. Open organize, maintain and close case files. Conduct legal research using statutes, case law and approved online resources. Assist in the completion of investigative cases by gathering and analyzing records, reports and criminal/driving histories. Draft investigative subpoenas and search warrants. Assist with all aspects of trial preparation: compile trial notebooks, draft witness/exhibit lists, subpoenas, jury instructions, verdict forms and exhibits. Schedule and coordinate court appearances, depositions and meetings. Remind attorneys of deadlines and court dates; notify victims, witnesses and relevant parties of hearings and changes. Serve as liaison with law enforcement, courts, attorney of record, public defender's office, witnesses, victims, social workers, healthcare providers and other agencies. Communicate effectively in person, by phone and in writing with the public and professionals regarding legal matters. The paralegal must refrain from providing legal advice, interpretations or personal opinions. Maintain and update office calendars and track lists for cases, warrants and deadlines. Monitor and ensure compliance with court-imposed and statutory deadlines. Perform routine office procedures, answer inquiries and provide documentation as needed. Manage warrant and release lists. Maintain secure electronic records with automated daily backups and restricted access controls. Maintain closed case files (paper and electronic) according to retention policies and destruction only upon approval of County Attorney. Handle sensitive and confidential information in compliance with legal and ethical standards. Demonstrate professionalism, emotional control and effective problem-solving in stressful or challenging situations. Physical Demands and Working Conditions Primarily works in an office setting, with occasional offsite file storage duties. Required to review written materials, analyze complex information and view sensitive content such as crime scene photographs. Must be able to lift, move, rotate and store banker boxes of files, including in offsite locations. Daily interaction with the public, law enforcement, attorneys, witnesses, victims and various agencies which include hostile individuals and challenging situations. The paralegal role is inherently demanding. The work environment is fast-paced and often stressful, with numerous short deadlines, urgent requests and the need to handle sensitive, confidential and sometimes controversial matters. May be required to work outside regular hours, especially before trials or to meet strict deadlines.

Supervision Received:

Supervision from County Attorney and Deputy County Attorney.

Probationary Period:

This job position has a probationary period of 12 months with an option to extend the probationary period up to 18 months.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Understanding of legal terminology, forms, procedures, and principles. Familiarity with Montana Code Annotated, relevant statutes, and legal research methods. Knowledge of court, administrative, and office procedures. Proficiency in document management (paper and electronic), bookkeeping, and standard accounting practices. Strong attention to detail and confidentiality standards. Effective time management and organizational skills. Proficient in word processing, Microsoft Office, Adobe Pro, Quicken, and operation of office equipment. Ability to create and manage paper and electronic filing systems. Excellent written and verbal communication. Capable of interpreting, summarizing, and compiling complex information. Able to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects under pressure. Demonstrates professionalism, emotional control, and initiative in stressful situations. Works independently and maintains effective relationships. Handles frequent contact with hostile individuals and challenging situations. Education and Experience High school diploma plus relevant coursework and paralegal training, or associate's/bachelor's degree. Minimum two years of legal secretarial experience. Proficiency in office equipment, Microsoft Office, Adobe Pro, Quicken, and office technology. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Pay:

From $23.37 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person