Paralegal to a Federal Judge

Summary

The Paralegal to a Federal Judge will provide legal and administrative support to an Article III federal judge. The representative duties below illustrate the major responsibilities of this position; duties may be adjusted, and additional responsibilities may be assigned, based on the operational needs of the court.

Duties

• Legal Support: Review legal documents for completeness and accuracy. Conduct legal research using source material or the internet. Compose and prepare correspondence, procedural orders, and documents that may require substantial research or analysis. Identify unique matters and undertake special handling requirements. Screen cases for potential conflicts and maintain the judge's recusal list. Case and Calendar Management: Track and monitor case calendars, filings, and hearings. Review daily electronic and paper reports to identify new filings. Monitor deadlines, prioritize tasks, and flag matters requiring action by the judge. Organize filings and case correspondence, log motions and other case actions, and maintain the case list. Compile information and prepare required periodic reports regarding court and non-court activities. File orders, notices, and opinions in the court's electronic filing system. Create and update templates for orders, motions, and other related documents. Administrative Support: Receive, screen, and refer questions in person or by telephone, and respond to basic questions regarding case status and scheduling. Assist the judge as needed with management of the judge's calendar and travel logistics. Oversee the travel reimbursement process, coordinating with the judge and court staff regarding travel voucher preparation, submission, and payment. Arrange meetings and conference agendas. Prepare financial disclosure reports. Maintain chambers' information storage and filing systems, both electronic and paper, for case filings, correspondence, publications, and other documents. Maintain and update law library within the established budget. Chambers Coordination: Assist with the selection of law clerks and interns as requested by the judge. Coordinate assignments among chambers staff and distribute information and tasks to law clerks and interns. Provide orientation and training to law clerks and interns on the judge's preferences and court administrative protocols. Maintain and certify time, attendance, and leave records internally for chambers staff. Provide assistance on automated systems and software for chambers staff. Oversee day-to-day operational management of chambers, including serving as liaison for physical needs such as heating/cooling, lighting, and cleaning. Arrange for service and repairs of equipment. Maintain office supplies. Perform a wide variety of special projects at the request of the judge.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a strong administrative and paralegal background, with excellent organizational skills and a solid knowledge of legal documents and terminology. The candidate should be able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with judges, senior staff, attorneys, and the public, and should be able to maintain the confidentiality and loyalty required of chambers staff. Strong computer skills are necessary, including proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, e-mail, and internet research, as well as familiarity with electronic case management/filing systems (CM/ECF). The candidate should also be comfortable using standard office equipment (multi-line telephones, copiers, fax machines, scanners, etc.) and skilled in planning and coordinating logistics for meetings and travel. Finally, the ideal candidate will be able to follow detailed instructions, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, conduct thorough legal, technical, and analytical research. Specialized Experience JSP 8: Six (6) months of progressively responsible experience that is in or closely related to the work of the position that has provided the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. JSP 9: One (1) year of progressively responsible experience that is in or closely related to the work of the position that has provided the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. JSP 10: Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience that is in or closely related to the work of the position that has provided the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. JSP 11: Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience that is in or closely related to the work of the position that has provided the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position or a juris doctor (JD) from a law school of recognized standing.

Education

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, J.D. preferred.