Paralegal, Criminal Defense

The Meade Law Group; Harrow; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking law firm as a Paralegal specializing in Criminal Defense. This full-time in-office position offers an exciting opportunity to support attorneys through various tasks such as document preparation, client interviews, and legal research. You will play a crucial role in trial preparation and maintaining case files, ensuring that every detail is meticulously handled. If you possess excellent communication skills and a passion for the legal field, this position is perfect for you. Experience a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly impact clients and their cases.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience in a paralegal role preferred.
• Strong understanding of legal principles and court processes.

Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with document preparation and trial preparation.
• Communicate effectively with clients, courts, and witnesses.
• Conduct legal research and prepare legal documents.

Skills

Legal Analysis

Verbal Communication

Written Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Time Management

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Confidentiality

Customer Service

Education

Associate degree in Paralegal Studies

Bachelor’s degree in Paralegal Studies

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Position Overview

Now Hiring! Paralegal, Criminal Defense

Location: Columbus, OH

Schedule: Full Time, In Office

Job Summary:

The Paralegal will assist attorney(s) by providing clerical and research support services including document preparation and review; interviewing clients and witnesses; research, investigations, and fact checking; and trial preparation. This is a full-time in-office position.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Communicate effectively with courts, opposing counsel, opposing party, and witnesses.
• Assist in requesting and compiling discovery and reciprocal discovery.
• Schedule hearings, phone conferences, and meetings.
• File with courts through a variety of methods.
• Assist with providing wraparound services and contact info for resources to clients.
• Coordinate and maintain calendars for attorneys.
• Assist with appeals, including drafting briefs.
• Meet with attorneys, clients, and other professionals to discuss assigned cases or projects.
• Draft legal documents including routine pleadings and motions, affidavits, and interrogatories; file motions and pleadings according to judicial procedures.
• Research and analyze statutes, regulations, legal articles, judicial decisions, and other legal sources; provide written analysis to attorneys.
• Interview clients and witnesses and prepare summaries of their statements.
• Prepare, organize, store, and retrieve case files, which may include evidence, exhibits, depositions, pleadings, and other items.
• Assist attorneys with trial preparation, which may include attending trials and hearings.
• Develop and maintain records regarding billable hours spent on specific cases.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Capability to analyze and apply legal principles to practical client problems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Understanding of legal language and principles, research methods, court pleadings and processes, and other related matters.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, and to exercise discretion and good judgment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Key Performance Indicators for the Position:

• Complete a quarterly checklist custom to the position.
• Attend regular one-on-ones with manager to assist in development.
• Maintain an average customer satisfaction rating of 3 or more.
• Complete learning objectives assigned each quarter.
• Complete and log billable hours on a daily basis which equal 80 legal hours each month.
• Track and monitor income generation.
• Attend weekly matter meetings with the team.
• Complete assigned networking opportunities.
• Complete and seek out additional professional development opportunities.

Education & Experience:

• Associate degree in Paralegal Studies or related field required; Bachelor’s degree in Paralegal Studies or related field preferred.
• 2-3 years of experience preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Acknowledgment

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the responsibilities and expectations of the position as described above. These expectations have been explained to me and I understand that any violations may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

The position specifications described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities. Requests for accommodation should be directed to the Office Manager.

This document was not designed to be an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties and responsibilities may be assigned and are subject to change. Management reserves the right to change this job description and/or the duties of this position at any time.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.