Legal Processing Assistant 3 - District Court

About the Role

Pursuant to the terms of GR 29, all District Court personnel are under the supervision of the Presiding Judge and under the direction of the Court Administrator, who reports directly to the Presiding Judge. In this role with District Court, you’ll step into a fast‑paced environment where no two days are alike. The position offers hands‑on exposure to a wide range of court operations—from case processing to courtroom support and beyond. You’ll lead a variety of clerical functions essential to case processing, along with key administrative tasks that keep the court running smoothly. Working under the guidance of a more senior staff member, you’ll develop a deep understanding of both the structure and flow of court operations, regularly working inside courtrooms and correctional facilities, making real‑time docket entries, recording detailed case data in multiple third‑party systems, creating court orders, and ensuring follow‑up tasks and future hearings are accurately processed.

Why It’s a Great Department

• Traffic and non‑traffic infractions
• Criminal and criminal‑traffic misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors
• Civil matters for damages for injury to individuals or personal property, and contract disputes no greater than $100,000
• Small claims for recovery of money not to exceed $10,000
• Name changes
• Anti‑harassment protection orders
• Stalking protection orders

How to Be Successful in the Role

• Detail‑oriented
• Reliable and punctual
• Familiar with legal terminology
• Able to listen to a judge’s direction and record it on a court order
• Accuracy and thoroughness are imperative
• Works well independently and as part of a team
• Keeps up with continual changes in process and legal requirements
• Multitasks effectively while working in a live courtroom
• Proficient in multiple operating and case‑management systems
• Experience working with elected officials is a plus

Core Daily Responsibilities

• Serve as back‑up to the Judicial Assistant by routinely attending court and making accurate minutes of court proceedings.
• Process orders of the Court.
• Oversee exhibits.
• Record case‑related data in various databases.

Minimum Qualifications

• Four or more years of progressive, responsible experience as a legal processing assistant, legal secretary, or related legal staff support function.
• A cover letter, resume, and three (3) professional references are required for this position. Applications without these materials will not be considered.
• As a condition of employment, the applicant must authorize and complete a background check; results are reviewed case‑by‑case and will not automatically disqualify an applicant.
• Additional education or experience may substitute for the recruiting requirements.

How to Apply

Complete and submit a detailed online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting “APPLY” above or visiting www.piercecountywa.gov/jobs.

For questions, email the Recruitment Team at PCHRRecruit@piercecountywa.gov and include the job number and title.

Individuals who need accommodation in the application or interview process may contact Human Resources at (253) 798‑7480 at least two days prior to the need.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.