Staff Paralegal

Orleans Indigent Defender • New Orleans, LA

12d • $46,000 - $76,000

About The Position

OPD is seeking individuals with an interest in public defense and legal work to join our Paralegal Division.

The Orleans Public Defenders Office provides holistic, community-based representation in New Orleans. We represent thousands of people each year utilizing a client-centered team model that puts the client first and takes a 360-degree approach to our advocacy and representation. We recognize our clients are unique individuals and work to address their needs both in the court and out. Our diverse staff includes adult and juvenile attorneys; social workers; client, youth and parent advocates; investigators, and administrators—all working together for equal justice for our clients, their families, our community, and a better New Orleans. In short, we protect innocence, defend the Constitution, demand justice, and hold power accountable.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

Under the supervision of the Paralegal Supervisor, the Staff Paralegal will work with case team members to provide support for clients’ cases. The division will support attorneys’ zealous representation of clients by organizing case information and discovery, subpoenaing witnesses and documents, preparing documents for court appearances and trials, and providing other critical case support. The Staff Paralegal will be an integral part of each case team, regularly collaborating with attorneys, investigators, client advocates, and legal assistants.

Requirements

• Experience & Background: 2+ years of professional experience in law, public defense, government, nonprofit, or relevant paralegal work; bachelor’s degree or paralegal certificate from an ABA accredited school is preferred. Experience in high-volume organizations and a demonstrated commitment to working with and serving indigent clients and people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Organization & Precision: Exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and ability to juggle competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to work independently and also as part of a team.
• Communication: Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across divisions and manage change in a complex organization.
• Legal Knowledge & Training: Interest in and ability to learn criminal defense processes and relevant Louisiana criminal law and procedure.

Nice To Haves

• Paralegal certificate or equivalent professional experience in legal casework is not required but a plus.

Responsibilities

• Casework & Analysis: Manage and organize discovery, investigation, and other case materials. Accurately digest information, flag key issues, and provide actionable support to attorneys throughout the life of a case. Track deadlines, filings, and procedural requirements to help support case strategy. Assist with hearing and trial preparation and support during all phases of trial. Develop knowledge of criminal law and procedure through trainings to effectively support attorneys.
• Legal Research & Drafting Support: Help attorneys with legal research, synthesizing fact investigation, and preparing motions, correspondence, and other case-related documents.
• Communication and Coordination: Assist with client and client family communications. Liaison between attorneys, clients and other parties to provide updates and address questions without providing legal advice. Communicate and coordinate with other outside parties, including experts, to support the case team.
• Collaboration and Culture: Contribute to a culture of mutual support, learning, and continuous improvement within the division and across the office. Engage in collaboration and professional growth while upholding OPD’s client-centered mission.
• Professional Obligations: Maintain confidentiality, high ethical standards, and a mission-driven approach to criminal defense work. Demonstrate professional judgment, discretion, and client advocacy.
• Perform other duties or projects as assigned, including occasionally attending conferences or meetings as needed to advance the division.

Benefits

• OPD offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous leave (vacation, sick, and parental leave, as well as local, state and federal paid holidays), employer-paid health insurance, retirement contributions, available life insurance, and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level