Trial Litigation Support Specialist

United States Courts; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Central District of California is seeking a full-time legal assistant in our Los Angeles trial unit. The role supports attorneys across trial, appellate, and habeas matters, handling pleadings, calendars, filings, and client communications.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree or equivalent specialized experience, strong computer skills (MS Office, Adobe Acrobat), and knowledge of legal terminology and Blue Book citation format.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or at least one year of specialized experience as a legal assistant.
• Strong computer literacy with Microsoft Office & Adobe Acrobat.
• Knowledge of legal terminology, Blue Book citation format, and court rules.
• Spanish language ability preferred but not required.
• In-office position; telework is not available; occasional after-hours support during trial may be required.

Responsibilities

• File court documents electronically and manually.
• Prepare and edit draft pleadings, reports, and correspondence.
• Maintain attorneys’ calendars and case files with up-to-date clearances.
• Screen public and client telephone calls; process mail as needed.
• Assist four to five attorneys and provide overflow coverage when needed.

Skills

Oral communication

Written communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Technical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree

One year legal assistant experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Adobe Acrobat

Document management systems

Evidence review platforms

Job description

The Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Central District of California is seeking a full-time legal assistant in our Los Angeles trial unit. The role supports attorneys across trial, appellate, and habeas matters, handling pleadings, calendars, filings, and client communications.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree or equivalent specialized experience, strong computer skills (MS Office, Adobe Acrobat), and knowledge of legal terminology and Blue Book citation format.