Impactful Paralegal – Wrongful Convictions Unit

State of Iowa; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Retirement plan participation

Employee assistance program

Job summary

The Iowa State Public Defender's Office is seeking a highly motivated Paralegal to support our Wrongful Convictions Unit in Polk County, Iowa. The role focuses on preparing legal documents, managing EDMS, and conducting legal research to assist attorneys in high-stakes cases.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong organizational skills, the ability to handle strict deadlines, and effective communication with diverse populations.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited paralegal program; OR two years of paralegal experience under an attorney.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and attention to detail.
• Experience with legal document preparation and case management systems.

Responsibilities

• Prepare legal documents and correspondence; review and proofread briefs and appendices.
• Monitor electronic filing (EDMS); manage docket access and case information in the CMS.
• Conduct legal research using Westlaw and other resources; maintain calendars and case statistics.
• Communicate with court personnel, attorneys, clients, and other stakeholders; perform administrative duties as needed.

Skills

Legal research

Attention to detail

Communication

Docket management

Document drafting

Education

Paralegal certificate/degree

Tools

Westlaw

EDMS

Microsoft Word / Google Docs

Case management systems

Job description

The Iowa State Public Defender's Office is seeking a highly motivated Paralegal to support our Wrongful Convictions Unit in Polk County, Iowa. The role focuses on preparing legal documents, managing EDMS, and conducting legal research to assist attorneys in high-stakes cases.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong organizational skills, the ability to handle strict deadlines, and effective communication with diverse populations.