Paralegal

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Job Summary

Assists one or more Assistant City Attorneys with the details of all aspects of legal work, carrying out legal dutiessuch as researching legal issues; preparation of documents pertaining to the handling of cases; collection ofdocumentary evidence and information; securing copies of regulations, statutes and case reports; and the screeningand processing of correspondence. This position reports to and performance is evaluated by an Assistant CityAttorney.

Job Description

Overview

The Paralegal assists and supports one or more Assistant City Attorneys with the details of all aspects of legal and related clerical or research work. Prepares documents pertaining to the handling of cases, collects documentary evidence and information, secures copies of regulations, statutes, and case reports, and processes correspondence.

Essential Functions

1 Responds to requests for interrogatories and other requests for discovery, production and admission of evidence; assists attorney in preparation of witnesses and documents for presentation in trial, deposition, or hearings.

2 Contacts, communicates, and engages with witnesses and other attorneys in connection with the scheduling or canceling of depositions, hearings, etc.; maintains calendar and ensures all parties are notifies of trials, hearings, and other important meetings; attends trials and hearings, organizes documents, contacts witnesses, and summarizes testimony; prepares and organizes necessary trial exhibits.

3 Intakes and coordinates changes, updates and development of City ordinances; ensures the accuracy in printing and monitors the disbursement of ordinance code book and related information.

4 Collects and organizes documentary evidence as needed from specific city departments; conducts factual investigation by visiting scene, taking photographs, and interviewing witnesses; drafts requests for production, admissions, interrogatories, and summarizes depositions as part of discovery procedures.

5 Secures copies of regulations, statutes and case law reports; maintains case files and keeps trial notebook updated; prepares and drafts legal documents required in pleadings, motions, and responses.

6 Arranges for authentication of medical, employment, or business records through affidavit or written questions for deposition; researches and investigates legal publications and cases to ensure extraction of pertinent decisions on points of law and checks writ histories.

7 Performs any and all other work as needed or assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

1 Knowledge of standard office procedures and practices.

2 Knowledge of the principles of civil and criminal law, city ordinances, state and federal laws, established precedents and sources of legal reference.

3 Knowledge of court procedures and rules of evidence.

4 Knowledge of the principles, methods, materials, practices and reference utilized in legal research.

5 Ability to analyze, appraise, and organize facts, evidence and precedents relevant in assigned cases.

6 Knowledge of correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

7 Communicating effectively orally and in writing.

8 Knowledge of customer service and related skills.

9 Ability to use office machines and computer software.

10 Ability to perform under pressure.

11 Ability to prepare routine correspondence and communication.

12 Establishing and maintaining strong and effective relationships.

Experience

3 years experience in municipal law.

Licenses and Certifications

None

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Legal Services, Business Management, or Administration or a related field.

The salary listed on this job posting is the starting salary range; amount offered will depend upon qualifications.

City of Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer.