Paralegal to a Federal Judge

U.S. Courts•Washington, DC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Paralegal to a Federal Judge provides legal and administrative support to an Article III federal judge. The role supports legal research and document preparation, case and calendar management, chambers operations, and coordination among chambers staff. Duties may be adjusted or expanded based on the operational needs of the court. The position reports to downtown Washington, DC; limited telework may be available on an ad hoc basis and/or according to agency policy. The position requires a strong administrative and paralegal background, excellent organizational and communication skills, knowledge of legal documents and terminology, and the ability to maintain confidentiality and loyalty. The candidate should have strong computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, email, internet research, and familiarity with electronic case management and filing systems such as CM/ECF. The role also involves using standard office equipment and coordinating meeting and travel logistics. The selected candidate will be an excepted-service, at-will appointee of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Employment is provisional pending a background check or investigation and a favorable suitability determination. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or otherwise eligible to work in the United States, subject to the stated restrictions for non-citizens. The selected candidate will be eligible for a federal employee benefits package.

Requirements

Strong administrative and paralegal background.
Excellent organizational skills and solid knowledge of legal documents and terminology.
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with judges, senior staff, attorneys, and the public.
Ability to maintain the confidentiality and loyalty required of chambers staff.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency with word processing, spreadsheets, email, and internet research.
Familiarity with electronic case management and filing systems (CM/ECF).
Comfort using standard office equipment, including multi-line telephones, copiers, fax machines, and scanners.
Skill in planning and coordinating meeting and travel logistics.
Ability to follow detailed instructions, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and conduct thorough legal, technical, and analytical research.
JSP 8: Six months of progressively responsible experience in or closely related to the work of the position, providing the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the duties.
JSP 9: One year of progressively responsible experience in or closely related to the work of the position, providing the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the duties.
JSP 10: Two years of progressively responsible experience in or closely related to the work of the position, providing the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the duties.
JSP 11: Three years of progressively responsible experience in or closely related to the work of the position, providing the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the duties, or a JD from a law school of recognized standing.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
U.S. citizenship or other eligibility to work in the United States, subject to the stated restrictions for non-citizens.
Successful completion of a background check or investigation and a favorable employment suitability determination.

Nice To Haves

Juris Doctor (JD) degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Review legal documents for completeness and accuracy.
Conduct legal research using source materials or the internet.
Compose and prepare correspondence, procedural orders, and documents requiring research or analysis.
Identify unique matters and apply special handling requirements.
Screen cases for potential conflicts and maintain the judge's recusal list.
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 periodic reports about 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 related documents.
Receive, screen, and refer questions in person or by telephone; answer basic questions about case status and scheduling.
Assist the judge with calendar management and travel logistics as needed.
Oversee travel reimbursement, coordinating travel voucher preparation, submission, and payment with the judge and court staff.
Arrange meetings and prepare conference agendas.
Prepare financial disclosure reports.
Maintain chambers' electronic and paper information storage and filing systems.
Maintain and update the law library within the established budget.
Assist with selecting 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 chambers staff time, attendance, and leave records internally.
Assist chambers staff with automated systems and software.
Oversee day-to-day chambers operations and liaise regarding physical needs such as heating, cooling, lighting, and cleaning.
Arrange equipment service and repairs and maintain office supplies.
Perform special projects at the judge's request.

Benefits

Paid vacation and sick leave.
Paid parental leave.
11 paid federal holidays per year.
Optional participation in Federal Employees Health Benefits, including health, dental, and vision coverage.
Optional participation in Federal Employees Group Life Insurance.
Flexible Benefits Program.
Public transportation subsidy.
On-site fitness center.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Optional participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, with up to 5% employer-matched contributions.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, subject to its terms.