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. The position is considered ministry for the Church. The employee is expected to support the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the Diocese of Austin’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 ongoing compliance with the Diocese’s Ethics and Integrity in Ministry policies. The work takes place in a fast-paced environment where priorities may change rapidly. Weekend, evening, and some holiday work may be required. The employee may travel to parishes and other locations, including overnight travel, and may use personal or diocesan vehicles. The employee will be exposed to Catholic religious ceremonies and is expected to follow established dress and conduct standards.

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.
Proficiency in English, including speaking, reading, and writing.
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 proficiency.
Critical and analytical thinking skills.
Research and investigation skills.
Written and verbal communication skills.
Time management and organizational skills.
Interpersonal, collaborative, and teamwork skills.
Discretion, trustworthiness, and ability to maintain confidentiality.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in Spanish, including speaking, reading, and writing.
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, annual notices of appraised value, and tax exemption applications.
Process and manage filings and entries in the Official Catholic Directory pages for the Diocese of Austin.
Assist attorneys with research and investigations.
Gather information to support contract negotiations and help parishes use appropriate contract templates.
Organize, archive, and manage 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, or presentations.
Send routine legal department communications and perform administrative tasks for the department.
Perform other duties as assigned.