Legal Assistant - Jefferson City

About the role

The Missouri State Public Defender is an agency dedicated to providing legal representation to individuals who are unable to afford an attorney in criminal cases. We are committed to upholding the constitutional right to counsel and ensuring fair and just legal proceedings for all citizens. We are seeking a motivated and organized individual to join our team as a Legal Assistant. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in assisting attorneys with client intake interviews, case preparation, and various administrative tasks.

Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with client intake interviews and case preparation
• Locate and copy discovery materials for case files
• Organize and summarize client files for easy reference
• Contact and interview clients and witnesses to gather necessary information
• Prepare reports and serve subpoenas as required
• Conduct limited legal research under attorney supervision
• Assist attorneys during court proceedings
• Make indigence determinations based on MSPD guidelines
• Attend court in-person or via webex and interact with judges and other court personnel on matters related to indigence determinations
• Conduct jail and prison visits with clients
• Monitor court e-notices and update client files and attorney calendars
• Frequently interact with the public, including answering phones, responding to client and family inquiries, and staffing the reception desk during public business hours
• Perform other administrative tasks as needed to support the legal team

Requirements

• Education equivalent to graduation from high school
• Three years of experience in office or related clerical work
• Preferably, some legal experience

Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite and other relevant software
• Knowledge of legal terminology and procedures is a plus

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• State of Missouri defined pension plan
• Generous amounts of leave and holiday time
• Eligibility for health insurance coverage

This is a full-time position based in Jefferson City. Verified prior state service, subject to applicable eligibility requirements, may increase total compensation.