LEGAL ASSISTANT LEAD (DEPARTMENT PROMOTIONAL)

This is a Department Promotional recruitment for a current full-time vacancy in the Public Defender's Office. The list established from this recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies. To be considered, you must be a current employee of the hiring department who has been in a classified status for a minimum of six months.

About the Role

Under general supervision, provides lead direction to staff responsible for providing legal assistant and clerical support services; performs legal assistant and clerical duties; and performs related work as required.

Responsibilities

• Mentor, coach, and develop Legal Assistants.
• Proactively identify operational gaps and implement practical solutions to enhance efficiency, streamline workflows, and support daily office needs.
• Prioritize competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Deliver precise, high-quality work with exceptional attention to detail, thorough review practices, and a commitment to accuracy.
• Communicate clearly, professionally, and respectfully with attorneys, court staff, colleagues, clients, and the public.
• Apply sound judgment grounded in confidentiality standards, ethical practice, and professional discretion.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment by encouraging cooperation, supporting shared goals, and promoting inclusivity.
• Adapt to changing priorities while remaining organized, reliable, and customer-focused.
• Serve as a knowledgeable subject-matter resource on legal procedures, case management systems, and departmental processes.
• Lead by example through accountability, integrity, and a commitment to excellent public service.

Requirements

• Two years of legal assistant experience; OR an equivalent combination of related education and experience.

Conditions of Employment

• The Legal Assistant Lead position is covered by the Washoe County Employees Association (WCEA) Non-Supervisory Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
• Background checks will be conducted through the State of Nevada and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Employment is contingent upon results, though a conviction record will not automatically disqualify an applicant.
• New and rehired employees must submit to a fingerprint-based background investigation (fee: $39.00, deducted from the first paycheck starting January 1, 2025).
• Employees must reside in Nevada or neighboring California communities (e.g., Truckee, South Lake Tahoe, or Susanville) by their first day of work.
• New hires start at the minimum salary range; eligible employees may receive an annual 5% merit increase until reaching the maximum salary for the classification.
• Upon promotion, current employees are placed at the minimum rate of the new salary range or receive a promotional calculation, whichever is greater.

Pay

New employees are hired at the minimum rate of the salary range. Eligible employees may receive an annual merit increase of 5% until reaching the maximum salary for the classification.