PARALEGAL I

All applicants must be able to communicate with clients and visitors and possesses the ability to complete tasks in a fast-paced work environment. MOPD is further committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs and activities by modifying or adjusting the job application process or the job or work environment to make reasonable accommodations to the known applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee be considered for the position they desire; to perform the essential functions of the position in question; or to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the accommodation imposes an undue hardship. Applicants must be able to operate a computer and other office equipment. Applicants must have access to a motor vehicle or be able to navigate public transportation. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact Tawanda Jackson, Human Resources Supervisor,410-767-8503  tawandal.jackson@maryland.gov   

The Office of the Public Defender is seeking detail oriented applicants with legal research skills, exceptional organizational, critical thinking and problem solving skills highly proficient in computer based data collection including remote filing in Maryland’s electronic court system and organizing and updating the confidential Public Defender electronic filing system on individual clients, as well as working with Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook, as well as Google email, Google Documents and Google Sheets to fill a full-time Paralegal I position in Wicomico, Maryland. The Paralegal I provides assistance to Assistant Public Defenders by performing legal research, conducting investigations, obtaining documents through the MPIA or legal discovery process, preparing files on cases, drafting legal documents, filing documents in court, assisting with pre-hearing preparation, reviewing court, police and trial files, answering correspondence and interviewing clients and witnesses. This position involves significant client contact with clients who have experienced and are experiencing trauma, indigent defendants and their families in office, court, detention centers and/or state prison settings. Bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. Knowledge of and interest in trauma-informed service for clients is a plus.

Preference will be given to applicants who possess the following preferred qualification(s). Include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications. Knowledge of Electronic Data Collection Systems, Electronic Filing, MDEC, Microsoft Office Suite Knowledge of performing legal research using Westlaw or other legal research applications. 3)Experience performing computerized investigations and background checks using programs such as CLEAR, Accurint or other online tools. 4)Experience working in the criminal justice or court systems with clients experiencing trauma.  Working with detained or incarcerated persons, attorneys and law enforcement or courtroom personnel. 5)Experience interviewing people and documenting the interview. 6)Experience and interest in assisting and working with individuals with cognitive or mental health concerns.

Please fax all paper applications and questionnaires to (410) 333-8134. Inquiries regarding applications and submitting paper applications can be directed to: Office of the Public Defender, Human Resources Division, 6 Saint Paul Street, Suite 1304, Baltimore, MD 21202; or by calling (410) 767-8500, Janynee.Bailey-Covington@Maryland.gov,toll free: 877-430-5187; TTY users call Maryland Relay Service 800-735-2258.Please be sure to include your name, identification number (Easy ID#) and job announcement number on any documentation to ensure timely processing. As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country and encourage them to apply.