Legal Access Monitor

Arizona Department of Administration • Phoenix, AZ

10d • $73,621 • Onsite

About The Position

The Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation, and Reentry (ADCRR) is seeking an experienced legal expert to fill the Legal Access Monitor position. The Legal Access Monitor ensures that the inmate population receives legal access pursuant to Agency Department Orders. Oversees the legal access program to reduce liability for lack of access to the courts. Works with the Arizona Attorney General's Office, ADCRR Office of General Counsel, and private attorneys to ensure appropriate and adequate legal access is provided to the inmate population. Is a part of the Legal Support Unit within the Office of General Counsel and performs other legal and litigation support responsibilities as assigned, including responding to complex discovery requests, public records requests, and subpoenas or other court orders.

Requirements

• Five years of experience performing administrative work in a criminal justice or law office environment
• Paralegal degree or Certificate
• Possess and retain a current, valid class-appropriate driver’s license
• Complete all required training, and successfully pass all necessary driver’s license record checks
• Maintain acceptable driving records
• Complete all required driver training
• Maintain the statutorily required liability insurance (see Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R2-10-207.11)
• Take a Tuberculosis (TB) test during their New Employee Orientation and every year thereafter
• Successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify)

Nice To Haves

• Experienced Paralegal
• Degree or certified Paralegal

Responsibilities

• Works closely with the Arizona Attorney General's Office, ADCRR Office of General Counsel, and private attorneys to ensure appropriate and adequate legal access is provided to the inmate population
• Ensures all inmates have direct access to the courts in all legal claims involving direct appeals from the conviction for which they are incarcerated, habeas petitions, and any other civil or criminal litigation
• Establishes contract terms for contract paralegals based on state and federal requirements for the provision of assistance to inmates on qualified legal claims
• Closely trains and supervises contract paralegals, including reviewing and approving invoices for appropriateness of work performed and hours worked
• Reviews and redacts records for public release in accordance with applicable laws and Departmental guidelines
• Receives, tracks, and responds to public records requests in accordance with Federal and State laws and Departmental policies and procedures
• Assists with discovery and other legal requests from the Office of the General Counsel, as assigned
• Consults with Agency librarians who assist inmates in Legal Resource Centers
• Trains and consults with Complex mail and property staff to ensure proper procedures are implemented and followed related to the receipt and delivery of legal mail and legal property
• Works to develop and maintain legal access through internet accessible tablets provided to the inmate population
• Ensures that all legal resource materials required by state and federal law are accessible to the inmate population
• Establishes, maintains, and trains staff on Agency procedures for E-Filing with Arizona District Court and the Court of Appeals
• Drives on State business
• Performs other duties appropriate to the assignment

Benefits

• Vacation and sick days with 10 paid holidays per year
• Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program)
• Robust and affordable insurance plan to include medical, dental, life, short-term and long-term disability options
• Exceptional retirement program
• Optional employee benefits such as deferred compensation plans, credit union membership, and a wellness program
• An incentivized commuter club and public transportation subsidy program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree