Paralegal II

DATE: 4-5-08
UNION STATUS: 1199
DIVISION/DEPARTMENT: Criminal Defense Practice
JOB CODE: P2120E
REPORTS TO: Borough Administrator
FULL/PART TIME: FT
LOCATION: 49 Thomas Street

Major Purpose of Position

The Criminal Defense Practice has an immediate opening for a full time Paralegal II to work in its New York County office to provide client services.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

  • Research, digest/outline case records (e.g. medical, criminal history, schools, etc.)
  • Draft legal memoranda, pre-trial motions, subpoenas, and orders to produce
  • Interview and assess client requests for services
  • Second seats trials
  • Assist with case preparation for trial and disposition
  • Prepare written reports summarizing information compiled
  • Copy and obtain court files
  • Serve subpoenas and other legal documents
  • Assemble court files and materials for trial/appeal/stays/writs
  • Obtain and review client records and determine course of action
  • Handle client and agency correspondence in connection with cases
  • Assist clients in preparing legal documents
  • Liaison between attorneys and their clients
  • Interact with clients and assist clients in completing forms and releases, refer clients to outside agencies, and handle basic correspondence with clients

Secondary Duties/Responsibilities

  • Other duties as assigned

Training And Qualifications

  • Paralegal certificate from ABA accredited school, Bachelor’s degree in relevant field or satisfactory completion of a comprehensive in-house training course appropriate to practice area
  • Experience in and/or commitment to advocacy on behalf of low-income people is strongly desired
  • Excellent writing, verbal, and organizational skills
  • Proficiency in legal research
  • Proficiency in computer and word processing skills
  • Ability to work independently and multi task
  • Ability to work in a team setting
  • Some knowledge of New York criminal law and criminal procedures
  • Proficiency in languages other than English is desirable, but not required

To Apply:

Please e-mail cover letter and resume and writing sample to KAMohamed@legal-aid.org with the subject line "PARA II - CDP MAN"

The Legal Aid Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer – Women, People of Color, Gays and Lesbians, Transgender People, Veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.