What are the responsibilities and job description for the Legal Process Assistant I - Juvenile position at Benton County?
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Reports To: Division Manager or Program Director
Supervises: N/A
FLSA: Non-Exempt
This position is responsible for a wide variety of legal operations requiring specialized knowledge of the legal system to allow for protecting the full legal rights of those referred to the Court. Performs a full range of administrative support to contribute to the efficient office operations within the department.
Examples of Job Duties:
(This listing does not encompass all the duties performed by this position and all the duties listed may not be performed by an employee working in this position.)
Organizes, establishes, and maintains court trial calendar for trials, hearings, motions, or arguments; assigns court dates, assuring compliance with Washington State Codes and statutory requirements for due process and timely hearings; coordinates court appearance with court staff, attorneys, police, and the public, and assists with fingerprinting. Reviews and/or prepares daily court files and verifies that Judges receive correct Court papers for hearings, trials, etc.
Independently prepares, edits, and processes a variety of legal documents, correspondence, memorandums, and pleadings for the Court; assures proper notification is received by appropriate parties of dates, hearings.
Assists with general court operations.
Establishes, maintains, and updates accurate, detailed, and complete records for Juveniles.
Records the outcome of each hearing, initiates requests for reports for future hearings, and distributes all reports for court prior to the hearing date and time.
Sets and coordinates all hearings, in and out of court, for juvenile court and relays any changes or revisions in the docket to the appropriate persons.
Responds to telephone and in person inquiries relating to the court docket from the public and other agencies, providing detailed technical assistance, explaining court policies, procedures, and processes, and providing services within scope of authority; refers inquiries/visitors to appropriate department or individual when necessary.
Prepares, types and proofs forms, correspondence, letters, court documents, orders, statistical reports, and other documentation.
Enters, updates, and/or deletes data in Local and State computerized records as appropriate to provide and maintain accurate files, records, and logs.
Initiates completion of regularly recurring reports and standard form letters using data from various sources. Maintains statistical records, making periodic audits as necessary; maintains follow up system on reports and other forms requiring action on a periodic basis, assuring timely action and/or review. Disseminates information based on the report conclusions.
Recommends and consults with the supervisor concerning problems, needs, ongoing processes, and procedural changes within department.
Provides back up support and assistance to other legal process assistant positions in case of absence or work overload and provides coverage of the Reception Desk.
Prepares and maintains the courtroom for daily proceedings. Performs other duties as assigned.
Working Conditions:
Work is performed in an office environment. Occasional physical effort is required to lift items up to 50 pounds. A physical hazard may occur from agitated individuals.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Thorough knowledge of court procedures, legal processes, the criminal justice system, secretarial and office practices.
Thorough knowledge of legal terminology, forms, and documents. Knowledge of office practices, procedures, and equipment.
Specific knowledge of department functions, procedures and related legal regulations and requirements.
Knowledge of basic math.
Skill in operating standard office equipment and computer programs.
Excellent oral communications skills to explain detailed and technical policies and procedures and to deal with other employees, law enforcement agencies, attorneys, and the public using courtesy, tact, and good judgment.
Ability to maintain the security and confidentiality of records and information.
Ability to read, understand, apply, and explain complex County/department policies and procedures.
Ability to work independently, organizing work with minimal supervision.
Ability to establish and maintain complex manual and computerized filing and recordkeeping systems.
Ability to work quickly, accurately, and thoroughly while paying close attention to detail and meeting deadlines.
Ability to interpret and prepare accurate legal documents, forms, correspondence, and records, using accurate business English, composition, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
Ability to type at level required for specific position.
Qualifications:
Education: High School diploma or GED.
Experience: Three years of progressively responsible clerical experience, including two years of legal office or court experience.
In lieu of the listed qualifications, we will consider any combination of education and experience which provides the candidate with desired knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the job.
Licenses, Certificates, & Other Requirements:
Must have a valid driver’s license.
Having a notary public license is helpful.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $48,297.60 - $62,670.40 per month
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Ability to Commute:
- Kennewick, WA 99336 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Kennewick, WA 99336: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $48,298 - $62,670