Legal Secretary Trainee - County Counsel

County of Santa Clara; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading public sector law office is seeking motivated individuals for the Legal Secretary Trainee position. This role offers a unique opportunity to support community-focused legal work while gaining valuable experience in a dynamic environment. As a Legal Secretary, you will collaborate with attorneys, assist in preparing legal documents, and manage files and calendars. Ideal candidates will possess strong organizational and communication skills, a commitment to confidentiality, and a collaborative work style. Join a diverse team dedicated to public service and make a meaningful impact in your community.

Qualifications

• Three years of clerical experience requiring discretion and judgment.
• Familiarity with legal terminology and office practices.

Responsibilities

• Prepare legal documents and maintain files accurately.
• Assist attorneys in preparing for hearings and managing calendars.
• Screen calls and handle confidential matters with discretion.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Legal Case Management Software

Communication Skills

Proofreading

Organizational Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Education

Three years of clerical experience

Job description

Under immediate supervision, initially in a training capacity, performs or assists in the performance of a variety of legal secretarial duties of moderate difficulty and learns the legal terminology, legal procedures and specialized tasks to support County Attorneys.

Overview

The County of Santa Clara Office of the County Counsel is a leading public sector law office in the country, offering a dynamic and diverse practice environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are recruiting for several Legal Secretary positions and encourage candidates interested in public service and supporting community-focused legal work to apply. More information can be found on our website.

About the Office

We serve as the general counsel for the County of Santa Clara, including the Board of Supervisors and all county departments. Our attorneys work across various civil practice areas such as elder protection, civil rights, environmental law, health services, labor, public safety, and more.

Role and Responsibilities

Legal Secretaries collaborate with attorneys and legal professionals on civil and quasi-civil matters, assisting in preparing for hearings, drafting legal documents, managing files and calendars, and maintaining confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

Position Details

The Legal Secretary Trainee position requires three years of clerical experience involving discretion and judgment. Trainees will receive legal procedures training to develop necessary skills and knowledge.

Candidate Qualifications

We seek public service-minded candidates familiar with Microsoft Office, capable of learning legal case management software, with excellent communication, proofreading, organizational, and interpersonal skills. A commitment to confidentiality and a collaborative work style are essential.

Additional Opportunities

Applicants may be considered for Confidential Legal Secretary Trainee roles supporting the County Counsel's Labor and Employment Team, which involve negotiations, union grievances, and personnel matters, with a 5% premium pay.

Important Information

Examination dates are tentatively scheduled for June 18-24, 2025. Qualified candidates will receive email notifications with instructions.

Essential Duties

1. Prepare legal documents such as correspondence, opinions, contracts, and pleadings accurately and properly formatted;
2. Abstract information from files and prepare legal forms;
3. File legal papers with courts;
4. Maintain files, correspondence, and law books;
5. Screen calls, exercising judgment on confidential matters;
6. Perform clerical functions and other related duties;
7. May be assigned as a Disaster Service Worker.

Qualifications

Equivalent to three years of clerical experience requiring discretion and judgment, and familiarity with office practices, legal terminology, customer service, and standard computer applications. Ability to work under pressure, handle confidential matters, and prioritize activities is essential. Typing speed up to 50 Net WPM may be required depending on departmental needs.