Court Clerk I (Special Project Worker)

Travis County; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated legal clerk to join their team, providing essential support in court-related clerical duties. This role involves interpreting legal procedures, managing case documents, and assisting the public with inquiries. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and a solid understanding of criminal justice policies. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of court processes, from document management to liaising with various stakeholders. If you are looking for an opportunity to contribute to the legal system and thrive in a dynamic environment, this position is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of clerical experience in legal settings with customer service.
• Familiarity with legal procedures and document control systems.

Responsibilities

• Assist public inquiries regarding court cases and legal documents.
• Prepare and issue legal notices, warrants, and court orders.
• Coordinate court settings and support judicial officers.

Skills

Legal Document Analysis

Customer Service

Court Procedures Knowledge

Communication Skills

Document Control Systems

Education

Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice

Associate's Degree in Public Administration

Associate's Degree in Business Administration

Tools

Case Management System

Office Equipment

Job description

Under moderate supervision, performs a variety of legal clerical duties related to court actions. Uses independent judgment to interpret and apply procedures and precedents to misdemeanor cases. Coordinates duties involved in assigned causes of action and handles detailed legal procedures such as receipt, review, and filing of court documents. Reviews legal documents, indexes them, and scans into electronic systems. Prepares and issues legal documents, assesses fees, and performs cashier duties. Acts as a liaison between the department, courts, agencies, and the public. May support Court Clerk II functions.

Distinguishing Characteristics:

This is a mid-level clerical role within the court support series, performing duties of moderate complexity. It differs from Court Clerk Assistant by requiring greater independent judgment and less general clerical work, and from Court Clerk II by not regularly working in a court setting or having supervisory duties.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Assist the public via in-person, phone, or email inquiries regarding court cases; process faxes, mail, and legal documents; schedule appointments; and provide notary services.
2. Serve as a liaison with defendants, plaintiffs, attorneys, law enforcement, and other parties, providing information and assistance on case status and legal procedures.
3. Assess fees, handle payments, and perform cashier duties, including preparing deposits and reconciling receipts.
4. Receive and process legal documents such as petitions, indictments, tickets, and orders; review and docket documents; process emergency orders; research and verify expungements; and maintain tracking systems.
5. Manage case initiation and updates in the case management system; organize, scan, index, and verify documents for quality assurance.
6. Prepare and issue legal notices, warrants, summons, and other court orders; record pleadings and motions; and maintain accurate docket information.
7. Coordinate court settings, schedule trials, assist in courtroom activities, and support judicial officers during proceedings.
8. Operate communication devices, perform legal calculations, and prepare notices of property sales and other legal notices.
9. Collaborate on special projects, conduct research, and produce activity reports.
10. Handle warrants, update warrant files, and coordinate with law enforcement.
11. Assist with civil case files, legal payments, and records storage.
12. Perform other related duties as assigned.

    Education and Experience:

    Associate's degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field, plus two years of responsible clerical experience with familiarity in legal procedures and customer service; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

    Licenses and Certifications:

    None required.

    Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

    • Knowledge of criminal justice policies, legal terminology, court procedures, and document control systems.
    • Skill in analyzing legal documents, coordinating reviews, calculating fees, and operating office equipment and communication devices.
    • Ability to interpret legal data, operate databases, work independently, make decisions, handle multiple tasks, and communicate effectively.

    Physical requirements include the ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally, visual and auditory acuity, manual dexterity, and ability to sit, stand, walk, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods.