Paralegal

Diocese of Austin•Austin, TX

About The Position

The Paralegal provides administrative and legal support to the Diocese of Austin’s legal office. The role processes and maintains corporate records, property tax exemptions, and Official Catholic Directory entries, and assists attorneys with research, contract support, document management, information requests, and reporting. It also coordinates legal department communications, records administration, and general office operations in support of parishes, schools, and diocesan entities. The position reports to the Associate In-House Legal Counsel. This is a ministry position closely connected to the Bishop’s ministry. The employee is expected to support the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the Diocese’s mission, model Catholic teachings, and participate in religious ceremonies, training, and reflection activities as directed. The role requires a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing and adherence to the Diocese of Austin’s Ethics and Integrity in Ministry policies. The position works in a fast-paced environment where priorities may change rapidly. Weekend, evening, and holiday work may be required. Travel to parishes and other off-site locations, including travel within and outside the diocese and occasional overnight lodging, may also be required. The Diocese is an at-will employer, and its buildings and vehicles are tobacco-free.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in paralegal education, or a bachelor’s degree or higher in studies related to the job duties.
At least 5 years of experience working under the supervision of an attorney.
Proficient English communication, reading, and writing skills.
Must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing.
Valid Texas driver’s license.
Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry policies throughout employment.
Knowledge of the structure and basic teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.
Attention to detail and procedural expertise.
Technology skills.
Critical and analytical thinking skills.
Research and investigation skills.
Written and verbal communication skills.
Time management and organizational skills.
Interpersonal skills.
Discretion, trustworthiness, and confidentiality.
Collaborative skills and experience.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in conversing, reading, and writing in Spanish.
Certification in Paralegal Studies.

Responsibilities

Support and uphold the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the mission of the Diocese of Austin in professional and personal life.
Model the teachings of the Catholic Church and participate in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities as directed.
Process and maintain corporate filings and annual minutes for parish and diocesan corporations.
Process property tax filings and documents for diocesan real property, including annual tax statements, notices of appraised value, and tax exemption applications.
Process and manage the Diocese of Austin’s Official Catholic Directory pages and entries.
Assist attorneys with research and investigations.
Gather information helpful to contract negotiations and assist parishes in using appropriate contract templates.
Organize and archive documents.
Respond to information requests from parishes, schools, and outside counsel.
Support general office administration, including budgets, reimbursements, routine reports, file organization, travel, and scheduling.
Compile information, exhibits, statistics, charts, graphs, and summaries for contracts, reports, and presentations.
Send routine legal department communications and perform administrative tasks for the legal department.
Perform other duties as assigned.