Criminal Trials Paralegal II: Trial Prep & Research

Out Professionals; New York (NY); On-site; USD 61,000 - 94,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid vacation

Disability insurance

Life insurance

Job summary

The Legal Aid Society seeks a Paralegal II to provide client services in its Trial offices across New York. The role emphasizes research, case preparation, and timely filing of documents to support lawyers.

Responsibilities include drafting memoranda and motions, maintaining files, interviewing clients, and coordinating with courts. Strong writing, research, and organizational skills are essential; experience with low-income advocacy is valued.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred.
• Paralegal certificate from ABA-accredited program.
• 4+ years of legal work experience (or equivalent).
• Experience advocating for low-income clients is strongly desired.
• Excellent writing, verbal, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in legal research and word processing.

Responsibilities

• Research, digest, and outline case records (e.g. medical, criminal history, schools).
• Draft legal memoranda, pre-trial motions, subpoenas, and orders to produce.
• Serve and file legal documents.
• Assist in maintaining client files (electronic and physical).
• Interview and assess client requests for services.
• Assist with case preparation for trial, disposition and discovery.
• Prepare written reports summarizing compiled information.
• Obtain and copy court files; obtain Certificates of Disposition.
• Assist clients with forms, releases, and other documents.
• Refer clients to outside agencies.
• Other duties assigned.

Skills

Excellent writing

Verbal skills

Organizational skills

Legal research

Word processing

Multi-tasking

Teamwork

Knowledge of NY criminal law

Second language skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree (preferred)

Paralegal certificate (ABA accredited)

High school diploma / GED + 4+ years legal experience

4+ years combined higher education and legal work experience

Job description

The Legal Aid Society seeks a Paralegal II to provide client services in its Trial offices across New York. The role emphasizes research, case preparation, and timely filing of documents to support lawyers.

Responsibilities include drafting memoranda and motions, maintaining files, interviewing clients, and coordinating with courts. Strong writing, research, and organizational skills are essential; experience with low-income advocacy is valued.