Legal Research Attorney

Mission Statement

The Judicial Department works to provide equal access to justice, contribute to public safety, and strengthen the rule of law across Colorado. Together our courts and probation departments are committed to impartial and timely dispute resolution; support for families, litigants, and victims; client rehabilitation; and meaningful community engagement.

STATEMENT OF DUTIES

Provides highly complex legal service performing legal research for the entire bench in a judicial district. Distinguishing Factors Positions in this classification are distinguished from law clerks and other positions due to the concentration on legal research for all district judges in a judicial district and maintenance of the district's law library. Courtroom and bailiff duties are not required of this position. This position reports to the Chief Judge in the designated district.

Essential Functions

• Researches legal issues presented by parties during litigation.
• Advises judges on research results and assists the judge in developing an appropriate course of action in the case.
• Writes the first draft of opinions issued by the court.
• Reviews documents and pleadings filed with the court as assigned by individual judges.
• Compiles information gained from research on particular issues in a case.
• Maintains all library materials including book, CD-ROM, and electronic research subscription in more than one location.
• Recommends library materials for research and reference purposes.
• Authorizes the use of research materials or the district's law library to those other than district judges.
• Attends meetings and training as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisor Responsibilities

No formal supervisory responsibility. Responsibility for one's own work product and work within a unit performing similar functions. Rarely provides lead function, advice, or explains work instructions to other employees or volunteers.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum Education: Graduation from an accredited law school; possession of a certificate of admission to the Bar of the State of Colorado; and eligibility to practice law before the courts of the State of Colorado.

Physical Demands

• Sit, reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.
• Handle emergency or crisis situations; subject to interruptions, and multiple calls and inquiries.
• Noisy work environment.

Work Environment

Occasionally handles emergency or crisis situations; frequently subject to interruptions, and multiple calls and inquiries. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

Additional Comments

Please submit a short writing sample (5 pages or less) unedited by another person, a cover letter, resume, and at least two letters of reference with your application. The Legal Research Attorney Team for the 4th Judicial District assists the District Court Judges in El Paso and Teller Counties with legal research and writing. Applicants should be comfortable working independently on complex legal writing projects. A hybrid work schedule may be available. Salary offers are made based on several factors, including relevant experience, available budget, and compliance with the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, aligned with our compensation step plan. Please include any relevant experience that you would like considered in the process. We hope to fill two LRA positions with this recruitment.