Legal Assistant

Job Summary

Performs detailed legal support work. Opens, sorts, reviews, and distributes incoming mail and court notices. Accurately inputs information into Minnesota County Attorney Practice System database (MCAPS). Exercises independent judgment regarding duties in accordance with policy and procedures. Receives, screens, and answers calls and assists the public.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Acts as Office Receptionist greeting the public, answering and screening telephone calls, and referring inquiries as necessary.  

• Assists in opening new incoming reports and enters data into MCAPS; maintains file updates for a variety of court hearings (e.g., bail hearings, First Appearances, Omnibus Hearings, Contested Hearings, Probation Violations, and Sentencings).  

• Assists with discovery downloads and maintains closed files with off-site storage provider.  

• Opens, sorts, reviews, and distributes incoming mail, court notices, and other legal documents; processes files coming back from court enacting workflow processes in the office.  

• Assists with letters, memoranda, and other office correspondence as assigned.   

• Works the hours and/or shifts assigned and begins and ends work on time.  

• Performs other related duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Requires equivalency of a high school diploma and two years responsible legal support work, preferably in a County Attorney’s Office. Training in criminal law desirable. The incumbent shall provide a reliable means of transportation for the performance of work responsibilities.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS
The employee is under general supervision from the Office Coordinator. Work is performed according to established procedures and is reviewed by the supervisor or attorney for accuracy and adherence to office procedures.

CORE COMPETENCIES AND ABILITIES
Customer Service - Delivers government services in a respectful, responsive, and solution-oriented manner.

Communication - Is always clear about what we're doing and why we're doing it.

Collaboration - Works with partners – communities, schools, faith groups, private business, and non-profit agencies – to see that services are not duplicated but rather are complimentary, aligned, and provided by the partners who can deliver the service most effectively.

Stewardship - Works proactively to make investments, guided by resident input, which will transform lives, communities, and government.

Empowerment - Works with individuals and families to affirm strengths, develop skills, restore hope, and promote self-reliance.

Resiliency - Fosters public preparedness and responds when families and communities face health and safety emergencies.

Innovation - Takes informed risks to deliver services more effectively and learns from successes and failures.

Knowledge– Knowledge of policies, practices, and services of the County Attorney's Office.

Knowledge of proper business English, spelling, legal terminology, punctuation, and grammar.

Abilities – Ability to type quickly and accurately.

Ability to work independently and follow policies and procedures.

Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.

Ability to use MS Office software for the performance of essential duties.

Ability to use appropriate discretion in dealing with matters of a confidential nature.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Typical characteristics of the regular, ongoing work environment of this position requires inside work in an office setting.
Physical activities include sedentary to light work: Reaching, sitting, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, pulling, fingering, grasping, feeling, stooping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions. Lifts and/or navigates up to 35 pounds on a routine basis in handling files and equipment necessary for performing the essential duties of the job.

SELECTION PROCESS

Selection for this position will be based on a minimum qualifications screening and rating of training and experience. Top candidates will be forwarded to hiring manager or supervisor for consideration for interview and/or additional assessments. Final selection will include a background check and approval by the County Board.