Under general supervision, performs entry level paraprofessional legal work in assisting attorneys in the preparation of criminal and civil cases; and does related other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This is the entry-level classification in the Paralegal series. This class is distinguished from the Paralegal II in that the II level is the journey level classification in the series and performs more complex work with greater independence.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Studies, researches, and interprets laws, court decisions and other legal authorities for use in the preparation of cases, opinions, and briefs; assists in case analysis.
Locates and interviews clients, witnesses, technical experts and others regarding specific civil or criminal cases.
Briefs witnesses for trial, gathers and prepares exhibits and evidence for trial; assists attorney in preparation for court; accompanies attorney to court to assist during court proceedings.
Prepares a variety of legal documents including subpoenas, writs, complaints, answers, declarations, responsive pleadings, and points and authorities.
Reviews a variety of documents for compliance with statutes, court decisions, and other legal authorities; advises parties on requirements of document completion.
Summarizes police reports; depositions, interrogatories, evidence, and other pertinent case files.
Confers with investigators regarding evidence and facts; may participate in investigations.
Prepares correspondence and reports; conducts special studies and research as directed.
May maintain law library; updates legal references; maintains inventory of library materials.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EITHER PATTERN I
Education: Completion of an approved paralegal training program.
OR PATTERN II
Education: Completion of 40 semester units of law school.
OR PATTERN III
Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a major in social or political sciences or related field.
And
Experience: One year of paid paralegal work.
Substitution: Additional-qualifying experience may be substituted for the education on a year for year basis for Pattern III only.
KNOWLEDGE
Basic legal principles; legal documents and their uses; legal office procedures and practices; legal terminology; basic legal research and legal reference material; general County government functions and legal responsibilities; basic rules of evidence; general court proceedings; basic investigative techniques and procedures; interviewing techniques; computer terminology and forms; public relations principles and practices.
ABILITY
Understand, interpret and apply basic legal principles and practices; research laws, cases, and other legal authorities; express self clearly and concisely orally and in writing; follow oral and written instructions; effectively interview others; and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
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