Paralegal (Legal Assistant I)

The K-12 Education and Labor Units of the State Services section are seeking a driven paralegal to join their team! This position will be an integral team member of both units and will be engaged in diverse work. We are seeking a paralegal who wants to be part of a small collaborative and inclusive team, has a passion for K-12 Education or Labor work (or a willingness to learn), and brings an eagerness to learn and grow in the position. If that sounds like you, we encourage you to apply today!

This position is open only to Colorado state residents.

WHAT YOU WILL DO
The K-12 Education and Labor Units have a variety of civil litigation in Administrative, State, and Federal Courts at all levels. The Paralegal will support attorneys and the Senior Paralegal by performing work requiring an understanding of the legal and procedural issues that arise in the context of civil litigation court cases. The position also assists in gathering information, drafting basic pleadings such an entries of appearance and discovery outlines, e-filing, organizing pleadings and discovery, performing basic research, and coordinating witnesses and exhibits for hearings, trial, and oral arguments. The successful applicant will be capable of efficiently proofing and cite-checking briefs, as well as code appellate briefs, and other assignments as needed. The position works independently as well as  collaboratively in a fast-paced team-orientated environment.

For the K-12 Unit, the Paralegal will manage a docket of educator licensing case. They will become familiar with the client’s case management system and assist with routine litigation activities common to matters being litigated in the Office of Administrative Courts. The Paralegal may be asked to assist with preparing routine pleadings and assist with discovery responses. The Unit also files appellate briefs in state and federal courts, so the Paralegal may assist with research, cite checking, proof reading, and formatting.

For the Labor Unit, the Paralegal will support the attorneys and the senior paralegal in all aspects of the Unit’s work, including daily advising, as well as litigation. The Paralegal will attend Unit meetings.

The Department of Law has multiple Paralegal vacancies in sections throughout the Department. This recruitment may be used to fill other positions at the Department of Law.

Salary note: Although a salary range is listed, salary will be set commensurate with the successful candidate’s qualifications and in compliance with the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We are looking for a dedicated public servant who want to be a part of very important work and thrive in a fast paced, inclusive, and collaborative environment.Minimum Qualifications:  Please document all relevant experience in detail on your application. Experience will not be inferred or assumed. Any part-time experience listed will be prorated.

• Paralegal certificate obtained through either an American Bar Association (ABA) approved paralegal studies program or an accredited institution.

Substitutions: Two years of work experience in a paralegal capacity which included conducting legal research, preparing drafts of legal documents, and gathering and compiling data from legal references and resources will substitute for the required certificate. A Juris Doctorate degree from an accredited law school may substitute for the required certificate.

Note: Candidates possessing a foreign degree must submit a translation (evaluation) of their degree from an accredited institution, such as The National Association of Credential Evaluations Services in order to be given credit for the degree.

Required Competencies: 

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite
• Effective oral and written communication with internal and external customers
• Strong attention to detail and organization skills
• Ability to research, analyze, and compile data
• Time-management skills, including the ability to multi-task and effectively manage competing priorities in order to meet tight deadlines
• Ability to work well with a diverse range of customers and work collaboratively on a team

Preferred Qualifications: In addition to the minimum qualifications, if you possess any of the following specifically include the details on your application. This information will be used to assess your qualifications and may be used to determine a top group of applicants.  

• Experience as a paralegal, which includes conducting legal research, preparing drafts of legal documents, and gathering and compiling data from legal references and resources.
• Experience supporting attorneys with case management
• High proficiency in Excel
• Knowledge of the litigation process
• Experience working in a government, public service, or educational setting
• Familiarity with ProLaw or similar case management and billing system
• Interest in K-12 Education or Labor work
• Experience working in a paralegal capacity for the State of Colorado

Conditions of Employment: 

• Applicants must pass a thorough background investigation prior to appointment.