Legal Assistant

Position Summary

Under general supervision, assists a legal office by helping Attorneys focus on client needs through an understanding of legal procedures, specialized research, preparation of documentation, coordinating projects, and managing information pertinent to court cases and legal proceedings. Work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks while in process, to ensure accuracy, timeliness and conformance to established standards.

Responsibilities

• Enhances Attorney effectiveness by compiling legal documents and court case information.
• Works closely with Attorney by tracking cases, meeting deadlines and confirming case status.
• Researches and prepares legal materials for legal proceedings.
• Independently composes and finalizes legal documents and correspondence, such as summonses, agreements, complaints, motions, pleadings, and subpoenas from written draft or dictation.
• Establishes, organizes and manages case files, documents actions, and inputs legal information into file databases.
• Files, logs and tracks legal documents through court systems.
• Manages attorney's calendars to keep abreast of upcoming court proceedings and to ensure appropriate parties are informed of upcoming court case dates.
• Develops, reviews and implements administrative and clerical policies, procedures, systems and forms designed to improve administrative operations and legal functions.
• Collections and accurately compiles data and information in support of reporting requirements.
• Screens incoming calls and correspondence; exercises judgment and responds accordingly.
• As delegated, coordinates, reviews, and monitors the work of assigned clerical staff.
• Performs other job related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Knowledge of Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
• Knowledge of Local, State and Federal Laws, regulations, court procedures and legal terminology with ability to research and learn regulations governing specific areas.
• Experience with legal and administrative requirements in the preparation of legal forms.
• Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
• Ability to research, collect data, establish facts, exercise good judgment and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to be highly diligent and efficient with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to be dependable and consistent to achieve success in the completion of projects.
• Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to independently problem-solve, multi-task and meet strict deadlines.
• Ability to coordinate meetings, schedules and the work of others.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
• Knowledge in records management and basic accounting procedures.
• Ability to operate various computer software applications.
• Ability to be punctual, work extended hours and work various schedules.
• Ability to travel long distances throughout the interior/exterior boundaries of the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in a legal field or paralegal certificate with three years of experience working in a law office as a paralegal or legal assistant or, if no degree or certificate, five years of experience working in a law office as a paralegal, legal assistant, legal secretary or other duties specializing in and directly related to support of legal functions.

Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements

• Must type 60 WPM and demonstrate 80% proficiency in Grammar, Spelling, and Math.
• Test requirement: Must answer a sample of written questions pertinent to this position.
• Upon recommendation for hire a criminal background and fingerprint check is required to determine suitability for hire.
• Must be able to obtain a Notary Public Commission.
• Continually maintains and updates professional and technical knowledge by conducting research, attending relevant seminars, workshops, and conferences.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
• Must submit a 39-month driving record with the employment application.
• Must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.

Department Needs

• May be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.