Legal Assistant — Courtroom Support & Case Prep

State of Missouri; Springfield (MO); On-site; USD 36,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Defined pension plan

Generous leave and holidays

Health insurance coverage

Job summary

The Missouri State Public Defender is seeking a dedicated Legal Assistant to support attorneys with client intake interviews, case preparation, and a variety of administrative tasks in Springfield, MO. The role emphasizes independence and teamwork in a fast-paced public defense office.

The position requires a high school diploma, at least three years of clerical experience, and strong organizational and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Education equivalent to graduation from high school.
• Three years of experience in office or related clerical work.
• Preferably, some legal experience.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with client intake interviews and case preparation.
• Locate and copy discovery materials for case files.
• Organize and summarize client files for easy reference.
• Contact and interview clients and witnesses to gather information.
• Prepare reports and serve subpoenas as required.
• Conduct limited legal research under attorney supervision.
• Assist attorneys during court proceedings.
• Make indigence determinations based on MSPD guidelines.
• Attend court in-person or via WebEx and interact with judges and court personnel on matters related to indigence determinations.
• Conduct jail and prison visits with clients.
• Monitor court e-notices and update client files and attorney calendars.
• Frequently interact with the public, including answering phones, responding to client and family inquiries, and staffing the reception desk during public business hours.
• Perform other administrative tasks as needed to support the legal team.

Skills

MS Office proficiency

Strong communication skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal abilities

Independent work

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma

Tools

MS Office

Legal terminology

Job description

The Missouri State Public Defender is seeking a dedicated Legal Assistant to support attorneys with client intake interviews, case preparation, and a variety of administrative tasks in Springfield, MO. The role emphasizes independence and teamwork in a fast-paced public defense office.

The position requires a high school diploma, at least three years of clerical experience, and strong organizational and communication skills.