Paralegal - Madison Trial Office

About the role

Are you seeking a rewarding and challenging career? Bring your skills to the Wisconsin State Public Defenders office (SPD) and make a difference in the lives of Wisconsin residents! SPD’s mission is to enhance the quality of justice throughout Wisconsin by providing high‑quality, cost‑effective representation to indigent clients, protecting the rights of accused individuals, and advocating for an effective and fair criminal justice system. SPD is committed to diversity in hiring, retention, and career development, and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Responsibilities

• Provide assistance and support to attorneys appointed to provide legal services.
• Prepare legal documents, including drafting, editing, proofreading, and formatting letters, motions, briefs, and other filings.
• Utilize Microsoft Office Suite and/or Google Workspace for word processing, database entry, email, scheduling, and spreadsheets.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Collaborate in a professional environment with people from diverse ethnic, cultural, political, economic, and religious backgrounds.

Qualifications

• Experience preparing legal documents (drafting, editing, proofreading, formatting).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and/or Google Workspace products.
• Effective oral, written, and communication skills.
• Ability to work with individuals from varied ethnic, cultural, political, economic, and religious backgrounds.
• Preferred: Paralegal work in a government agency or law firm.
• Preferred: Experience with criminal, juvenile, and/or mental‑health legal systems.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health plans, including the region’s best options.
• Generous paid time off: starting with 3.5 weeks of vacation, 9 paid holidays, and ample sick leave.
• Participation in one of the nation’s top‑rated pension plans.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program for student loans.
• Professional development and a wide variety of training opportunities.
• Inclusive, human‑centered, family‑friendly culture that encourages employees to bring their “whole self” to work.
• Special appointment program for qualified veterans with a 30 % or greater service‑connected disability.

Pay

Starting salary between $24.12 and $35.06 per hour (pay schedule/range 07‑04). A one‑year probationary period is required. Final selected candidates may be eligible for moving‑expense reimbursement to relocate to the place of employment.

Schedule

Full‑time position.