Legal Secretary

State of Oregon•Salem, OR

3d•$4,186 - $6,187•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Public Defense Commission is seeking a highly organized and collaborative Legal Assistant to support our attorneys in the Criminal Appellate Section and contribute to the important work we do statewide. In this role, you will manage case files, track critical deadlines, navigate court systems, and provide essential office-wide support. We are looking for someone who is adaptable, detail-oriented, and committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace. If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact and grow within a supportive team, we encourage you to apply today! This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified applicants to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur. This is a hybrid position.

Requirements

Two years of clerical/secretarial experience which included at least one year as a legal assistant or secretary for an attorney or judge or performance of legal support duties (such as preparing legal documents, maintaining legal records or researching legal information).
Proficiency in word processing software.

Nice To Haves

Exceptional organization and file management skills.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy: especially with deadlines and tracking.
Ability to learn and navigate electronic court systems and databases.
Reliability and flexibility in providing coverage and support across the office.
Effective communication and teamwork, including the willingness to assist others.
Professionalism and strong interpersonal skills for working with attorneys, clients, and coworkers.
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Commitment to a respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free workplace.

Responsibilities

Manage case files, track critical deadlines, and navigate court systems.
Provide essential office-wide support.
Support multiple attorneys who provide appellate representation to clients primarily in criminal cases and parole cases.
Perform complex administrative clerical work including preparation of legal documents, calendaring, and records maintenance, and communications with parties and court staff.
Maintain organized case files, process incoming documents, and review trial court records and electronic case management systems.
Monitor caseloads, calendar deadlines, and database reports to ensure timely and accurate case tracking.
Produce files and documents as requested by attorneys or management.
Provide cross-coverage and support for other legal assistants, including serving as “officer of the day,” covering for assistants on extended leave, and managing case transfers and intake processes.
Coordinate key operational functions such as the rotating officer-of-the-day schedule and the oral argument docket.
Assist with central reception duties as needed.
Support coworkers, supervisors, and clients by participating collaboratively in office activities and helping identify and resolve issues constructively.
Foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes a discrimination- and harassment-free workplace.