Paralegal

Defender Association Of Philadelphia•Philadelphia, PA

11d

About The Position

Looking to make a difference! Become a Defender! Are you looking to join an organization with a great mission? The Defender represents client who are accused of serious charges and who cannot afford an attorney. We are looking for a paralegal in our Special Litigation Division (SLD) which provides representation in domestic violence and sex cases at various stages that are often complex and challenging. The SLD Paralegal will provide support to attorneys at all levels of practice and will work on cases at different stages of the criminal process. Organization, attention to detail, interest in the criminal justice system, strong communication skills, and a willingness to learn are necessary attributes for this position.

Requirements

Bachelor or Associate degree with paralegal certification or any equivalent combination of relevant education and professional experience.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Keen sense of organization and attention to detail.
Strong analytical skills and ability to problem-solve independently.
Ability to interpret and apply the Pennsylvania Crimes Code to individual cases.
Ability to communicate effectively, professionally, and respectfully with clients, family members, internal staff, and external agencies/personnel.
Ability to work in a high-volume practice and prioritize assignments effectively.
Commitment to professionalism in the workplace.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or similar computer software.
Familiarity with Westlaw and the legal research process.
Willingness to learn new organizational and computer systems.
Ability to handle sensitive matters and commitment to maintaining client confidentiality
Willingness to go to court and the Philadelphia county jails if necessary.
Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer
Must be able to lift at least 15 pounds

Nice To Haves

Experience working with indigent clients in criminal justice proceedings preferred.
Familiarity with the Philadelphia criminal court system preferred.
Working knowledge of Defender computer databases preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Calculate clients Sentencing Guidelines.
Analyze cases for potential mandatory and/or recidivist sentencing enhancements and order all records necessary to perform such analysis, including, but not limited to, clients out-of-county criminal case files.
Aid attorneys or other organizational units that need Sentencing Guidelines calculated, updated, or amended.
Identify Defender conflicts of interest and recommend resolutions.
Receive, review, and request pretrial discovery from the Philadelphia District Attorneys Office.
Order and obtain notes of testimony.
Perform legal research and draft pretrial motions at the trial level with attorney oversight.
Transcribe video or audio discovery as needed.
Respond to external communications from clients and family members as needed.
Maintain and update files through the Defenders electronic case management systems.
Assist unit coordinator and administrative assistant as assigned.
Perform other related duties as assigned