Paralegal - County Attorney's Office

Job Description:

Paralegal - County Attorney's Office

Description

Paralegal
County Attorney's Office
Full Time, 12 months
Non-Exempt, PG 31
Benefits Eligible, VRS Eligible

Job Summary/ Objective:

Performs responsible paraprofessional work. Work requires a broad knowledge of the laws of Virginia, research of complicated legal issues, preparation of legal documents, organization of evidence, regular contact with attorneys in the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit, Department Heads and employees of Albemarle County, and occasional administrative tasks. Work is performed under general supervision.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Essential Functions:

• Conducts legal research, identifies relevant points of law, and summarizes findings in writing for attorneys;
• Assembles and organizes resource materials for use by attorneys; Reviews files for attorney signatures and attention; Prepares draft correspondence, memoranda, pleadings, ordinances and policy amendments;
• Researches ownership of land and abstract titles to real estate; Prepares legal descriptions of real estate; Prepares, files and records deeds, easements and other legal documents;
• Prepares draft reports and resolutions for Board of Supervisors meetings;
• Supports civil penalty process; Supports legal review of proffers and special use permits;
• Prepares draft legal briefs, memoranda and forms for litigation; Prepares exhibits to be presented in court;
• Assists/supports attorneys in court; Supports the County Attorney in preparation of the County’s legislative priorities, and tracks relevant state legislation during the General Assembly session;
• Assists with responses to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests; Provides clerical and secretarial back-up to legal services coordinator;
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Competency: Knowledge/ Skills/Abilities:

• Substantial knowledge of legal procedures and resources of local government and its relationship to other local, state, and federal agencies; Extensive knowledge of the resources available for legal research and their use;
• Ability to analyze complicated facts and legal issues and make logical legal-based recommendations to professionals;
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally, in writing, and through digital platforms;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships including, but not limited to, relationships with County officials, County employees, attorneys and the public;
• Ability to maintain ethical and confidentiality standards in a legal environment.

Required Education and Experience:

• Experience or education equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university.
• Certification as a paralegal or legal assistant and two years’ experience as a paralegal.
• Competence in online computer legal research, word processing, and legal office procedures.

Preferred Qualifications/Certifications:

• None.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Administrative work typically performed sitting in an office with occasional walking, light lifting of office items up to 30 pounds; and other limited physical activities.
• Frequent sustained operation of office equipment is required.
• Occasional secretarial duties, in support of the attorneys.
• Regular contact is made with the office staff, County officials, County employees and attorneys. Contacts must be characterized by tact and diplomacy. First-line contact with the public, who on occasion can be rude, hostile, or angry.

Salary Range:

The hiring range for this position is $29.13 - $32.20 an hour, which is approximately $60,599 - $66,977 per year. Starting offer is based on applicable education beyond minimum requirements and internal equity. The position also provides excellent benefits including 12 paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, health insurance options with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, VRS retirement, and continuing education/training opportunities. This is a full time, FLSA non-exempt position. Internal candidates will receive pay adjustments in accordance with Local Government Personnel Policy, §P-60.

Deadline for Applications: Position posted until January 31, 2025

Remote Work:

This position is eligible for a hybrid remote work schedule that is in compliance with the County’s Remote Work Policy and meets the operational and service needs for the position. All County staff must maintain residence within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Albemarle County Core Values:

Albemarle County holds its employees to the highest standards in fulfilling the County’s Vision and Mission. We believe in excellence in public service through

Community: We expect diversity, equity and inclusion to be integrated into how we live our mission.

Integrity: We value our customers and co-workers by always providing honest and fair treatment.

Innovation: We embrace creativity and positive change.

Stewardship: We honor our role as stewards of the public trust by managing our natural, human, and financial resources respectfully and responsibly.

Learning: We encourage and support lifelong learning and personal and professional