Paralegal Specialist

United States Courts; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims seeks a capable paralegal to support multiple attorneys in a fast-paced federal court environment, performing legal research, document preparation, and case management. Candidates must have a paralegal certificate or degree from an accredited institution, or an equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible paralegal experience.

Experience in veterans' benefits law is helpful but not required; strong writing and

Qualifications

• Paralegal certificate or degree from an accredited institution, or an equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible paralegal or legal support experience.
• Experience in veterans' benefits law and court operations or administration is beneficial but not required.
• Strong research, writing, and organizational skills are essential for handling multiple attorneys and deadlines.

Skills

Legal research

Written and oral communication

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Independent work

Confidentiality

MS Office & records systems

Education

Paralegal certificate or degree

Equivalent education/experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Electronic records systems

Job description

The U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims has exclusive jurisdiction over decisions of the Board of Veterans' Appeals (Board or BVA). The Court reviews Board decisions appealed by claimants who believe the Board erred in its decision. The Court's review of Board decisions is based on the record before the agency and arguments of the parties, which are presented in a written brief, with oral argument generally held only in cases presenting new legal issues.

Required Qualifications:

• The selectee must have a paralegal certificate or degree from an accredited institution, or an equivalent combination of education and progressively responsible paralegal or legal support experience.

Note:

Experience in veterans' benefits law and court operations or administration is beneficial but not required.

Skills:

• Proficiency in legal research, including use of online legal research databases and methods.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in writing and orally.
• Skill in organizing, tracking, and managing multiple assignments and deadlines, with exceptional attention to detail.
• Flexibility to adapt to shifting priorities and provide support for multiple attorneys.
• Ability to perform duties and assignments independently.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and electronic records systems with a willingness and ability to learn other technologies and systems used by the Court.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a federal court, judicial branch, government legal office, or law firm.
• Familiarity with judicial ethics, ethics advisory functions, or administrative law.
• Experience supporting senior-level attorneys or executives in a high-paced work environment.

Promotion Potential:

This position may be filled at the CS-9 or CS-11 depending on the selectee's qualifications. If filled below the CS-11 level, the position may have promotion potential to CS-11 without further competition, subject to satisfactory performance, availability of work, and compliance with applicable Court policies.