Legal Processing Support - Public Defense Services

Pima County; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Pima County is seeking a Legal Processing Support (Processing Clerk) to assist in the Public Defense Services Department. Responsibilities include front desk administration, scheduling, and maintaining client records.

The ideal candidate will have legal clerical experience, be adept at managing confidential information, and proficient in preparation of legal documents. This position supports the operations of legal offices and serves as a key contact point for clients.

Qualifications

• Minimum of six months of legal clerical experience or one year of general clerical experience.
• Ability to handle confidential information and legal documents.
• Proficient in software and computer programs for data management.

Responsibilities

• Administer front desk and handle client communications.
• Compile and prepare legal documents.
• Maintain records and ensure completeness of case files.
• Schedule meetings and manage court documentation.
• Conduct computer searches for verifying information.

Skills

Legal clerical experience

Client communication

Document preparation

Education

Relevant education or experience from an accredited college

Job description

Job Title

Legal Processing Support (Processing Clerk), Department: Public Defense Services.

Job Summary

This role supports all levels of Processing Clerk assignments in the offices of the Pima County Public Defense Services Department (Legal Advocate; Legal Defender; Mental Health Defender; Office of Children’s Counsel; Public Defender). Responsibilities include administering the front desk, handling client and staff communications, scheduling, court documentation, and record management. The position is integral to maintaining office operations and serving as the first point of contact for clients and visitors.

Responsibilities

• Answer procedural questions from the public and staff regarding specialized documents, policies, and services and research relevant information.
• Compile confidential information and prepare legal documents.
• Maintain and update records, file folders, logs, and status records, ensuring processes are accurately reflected and purged as necessary.
• Index, classify, code, and file records, reports, and documents.
• Conduct computer searches to obtain or verify information such as criminal histories, asset information, and employment details using restricted access resources.
• Interview clients to obtain or verify general information for case records.
• Retrieve and provide case disposition information to concerned parties, determining further action as needed.
• Create and maintain new records and client files, managing data input and retrieval using computer systems.
• Develop and manage spreadsheets and databases using software or computer programs.
• Schedule and arrange meetings, conferences, interviews, appointments, and travel.
• Gather information and prepare routine legal documents such as complaints, warrants, and depositions, as well as handling routine correspondence.
• Review case files to ensure completeness and contact relevant parties to obtain missing documents.
• Assemble daily court calendars, prioritize trials or hearings, and relay information to judges and concerned parties.
• Receive payments, issue receipts, and verify daily cash intake against receipts.
• Coordinate processing actions with other units, departments, or outside agencies, and assist clients or applicants in completing the service process.

Minimum Qualifications

• Six (6) months of legal clerical experience.
• OR: One (1) year of general clerical experience.
• Relevant education or experience from an accredited college or university may be substituted.

Licenses and Certificates

Some positions require a valid Arizona Class D driver license at the time of application or appointment. Failure to obtain or maintain the required licensure shall be grounds for termination.

Physical/Sensory Requirements

Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying of items up to 20 pounds; occasional lifting up to 50 pounds. Frequently speaks to clients and other case parties in person and/or by phone. Other physical and sensory abilities will be determined by the position.

Working Conditions

Work in a professional office setting; frequent computer use; frequent observation of details at close range. Remain in a stationary or moving position within the office as needed.

EEO Information

Pima County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. The County provides a diverse and inclusive workforce and does not discriminate on any protected basis.