Paralegal - Waukesha Trial Office

About the Role

The Wisconsin State Public Defender's office (SPD) is seeking a full-time Paralegal for our Waukesha Trial office, with travel to other offices in the Waukesha Region (Jefferson, Waukesha, and West Bend). SPD's mission is to enhance the quality of justice by providing high-quality, cost-effective representation to indigent clients, protecting the rights of accused individuals, and advocating for an effective defense services and a rational criminal justice system.

Responsibilities

• Provide assistance and support to attorneys appointed to provide legal services.
• Perform online legal research using search engines such as Westlaw.
• Prepare legal documents, including client correspondence, boilerplate court filings, and legal research memos.
• Assist in trial preparation.
• Handle criminal court filings and work with CCAP.

Requirements

• Experience working in a law office and/or other legal setting.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and/or Google Suite products (e.g., word processing, database entry, email, scheduling, spreadsheets).
• Effective oral, written, and communication skills.
• Experience working in a professional environment with diverse populations.

Qualifications

• A well-qualified candidate will have experience in criminal court filings, preparing legal documents, and assisting in trial preparation.

Benefits

• Access to excellent comprehensive benefit and compensation package.
• Region's best health plans.
• Generous paid time off, including 3.5 weeks of vacation, 9 paid holidays, and ample sick leave.
• Participation in one of the nation's top-rated pension plans.
• Potential eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Starting salary: $24.12 - $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.

How to Apply

Submit a resume and a letter of qualifications through the online application process. Clearly illustrate how your skills and experience relate to the job qualifications. Deadline: 11:59 pm on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. Contact Monica Endres at endresm@opd.wi.gov with questions.