Legal Secretary

Location: Salem, OR | Hybrid position

About the Role

The Oregon Public Defense Commission is seeking a highly organized and collaborative Legal Assistant to support attorneys in the Criminal Appellate Section and contribute to statewide public defense efforts. This role involves managing case files, tracking critical deadlines, navigating court systems, and providing essential office-wide support. We are looking for someone adaptable, detail-oriented, and committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace.

Salary

$4,186 - $6,187 per month. The posted range is the total possible for the classification. If you are already a participating PERS member or become PERS-eligible, the salary range increases by 6%. The top candidate will be screened through a Pay Equity process evaluating various factors. Learn more about Pay Equity.

Benefits

• Employer-paid health insurance
• Vacation and sick leave
• Eleven paid holidays plus three paid personal days
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employer contribution retirement plan (PERS)

Responsibilities

Attorney Support

• Maintain organized case files and process incoming documents
• Review trial court records and electronic case management systems
• Monitor caseloads, calendar deadlines, and database reports for timely and accurate case tracking
• Produce files and documents as requested by attorneys or management

Office Support

• Provide cross-coverage and support for other legal assistants, including serving as “officer of the day”
• Cover for assistants on extended leave and manage case transfers and intake processes
• Coordinate key operational functions such as the rotating officer-of-the-day schedule and oral argument docket
• Assist with central reception duties as needed

Ongoing Responsibilities

• Support coworkers, supervisors, and clients through collaborative office activities
• Help identify and resolve issues constructively
• Foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive work environment that values diversity and promotes a discrimination- and harassment-free workplace

Requirements

• Two years of clerical/secretarial experience, including at least one year as a legal assistant or secretary for an attorney or judge, or performing legal support duties (e.g., preparing legal documents, maintaining legal records, or researching legal information)
• Proficiency in word processing software

Desired Attributes

• Exceptional organization and file management skills
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy, especially with deadlines and tracking
• Ability to learn and navigate electronic court systems and databases
• Reliability and flexibility in providing coverage and support across the office
• Effective communication and teamwork, including willingness to assist others
• Professionalism and strong interpersonal skills for working with attorneys, clients, and coworkers
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Commitment to a respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free workplace

About the Oregon Public Defense Commission

The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is an agency governed by a 13-member commission appointed by the Governor, serving as the governing body for Oregon’s public defense system. OPDC provides policy direction and oversight for the administration of the system, ensuring constitutionally competent and effective legal representation for people eligible for a public defender. The agency includes the Executive, Appellate, Trial, Trial Development & Resources, and Administrative Services Divisions. OPDC negotiates contracts with trial-level public defense providers and administers funds for representation and related services. The Appellate Division provides direct legal representation in state appellate courts for criminal, juvenile dependency, termination of parental rights, and parole cases.