Legal Assistant

The Legal Assistant provides administrative, clerical, and case support to attorneys and staff within the Public Defender’s Office. This position is responsible for maintaining accurate case records, preparing and processing legal documents, assisting with court-related tasks, communicating with clients and justice partners, and helping ensure deadlines are met. The Legal Assistant plays an important role in supporting the daily operations of the office and helping attorneys provide effective representation to clients. Examples of Work Performed * Prepare, proofread, scan, upload, and process legal documents, correspondence, pleadings, notices, and other case-related materials. * Accurately file documents with the court through the appropriate electronic filing system and within required deadlines. * Maintain and update case information in the office case-management system. * Open, organize, monitor, and close case files according to office procedures. * Review and process incoming mail, e-service, discovery, court notices, and other case-related documents. * Assist with discovery, including receiving, organizing, imaging, and distributing materials as needed. * Schedule hearings, depositions, client appointments, attorney meetings, and other case-related events. * Maintain attorney calendars and provide timely reminders of deadlines, hearings, appointments, and required follow-up. * Answer phone calls, take messages, respond to routine questions, and redirect calls when appropriate. * Communicate professionally with clients, attorneys, court personnel, law enforcement, outside agencies, vendors, and the public. * Process invoices, travel requests, and other administrative forms as assigned. * File, organize, copy, scan, and maintain legal documents and office records in a timely and accurate manner. * Assist attorneys and supervisors with special projects, reports, and other duties as assigned. * Maintain confidentiality of client information, case records, and office matters at all times. ***Note:*** *These examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. The omission of a specific duty does not exclude it from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.* Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities * Knowledge of general office procedures and legal office practices. * Ability to prepare, proofread, and process legal documents accurately. * Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately. * Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in person, by phone, and in writing. * Ability to organize work, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines. * Ability to follow instructions, office procedures, and court-related requirements. * Ability to work independently and as part of a team. * Ability to use computers, email, scanners, electronic filing systems, and case-management software. * Ability to interact professionally with clients, coworkers, court staff, attorneys, agencies, and the public. * Ability to remain calm and professional in a busy legal office environment. Minimum Training and Experience Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma and one year of secretarial, legal assistant, administrative, or clerical experience. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered. Experience in a legal office, court system, public defender’s office, state attorney’s office, clerk’s office, or other criminal justice setting is preferred but not required. Benefits * State of Florida Retirement System * Health insurance options * Life insurance options * Supplemental insurance options * Paid annual leave * Paid sick leave * Paid holidays Work Hours Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Equal Opportunity Employer The Fifth Circuit Public Defender’s Office is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. The Fifth Circuit Public Defender’s Office participates in E-Verify to confirm eligibility to work in the United States. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $31,200.00 per year Benefits: * Dental insurance * Employee assistance program * Flexible spending account * Health insurance * Health savings account * Life insurance * Paid time off * Retirement plan * Tuition reimbursement * Vision insurance Education: * High school or equivalent (Required) Experience: * Legal Assistants/Secretary: 1 year (Preferred) Work Location: In person