Paralegal FT

The Paralegal–Public Defender performs paralegal tasks related to the operation of the Muskegon County Public Defender’s Office as assigned by the Research Attorney–Public Defender and other attorneys of the office; researches legal questions using Westlaw and other resources; prepares legal documents with or without clerical assistance; assists attorneys in the discovery and trial process; and performs related duties as required.

Required Minimum Entrance Qualifications

Possess a Law Degree from an accredited college or university; OR

Possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and two (2) years’ experience in legal research and writing; OR

Possess an Associate’s Degree from an accredited college or university in paralegal or legal assistant program; OR

Possess a high school diploma AND have five (5) years’ experience as a Paralegal or Legal Assistant.

Physical Conditions / Work Location

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES
An employee in this class performs generally sedentary or light physical work activities requiring the occasional lifting of objects weighing up to thirty-five (35) pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified applicants.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
The Paralegal–Public Defender works in the office of the Muskegon County Public Defender. Work may be carried out throughout the Public Defender’s office or out of doors, and travel throughout the County may be required.

Additional Information

EVALUATION CONTENT
The selected candidate must take a post-offer medical examination (including back screen and complete physical) and drug screening test given by a County appointed physician before the first day of employment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the results of the medical examination and drug screening test. Applicants for County employment may be subject to a post-offer criminal background check, depending on the nature and assignment of the position. When such check is conducted, an offer of employment is contingent upon the results of the criminal background check. Appointees must satisfactorily complete a probationary period before the appointment will be considered permanent.

APPLICANT REVIEW PROCEDURE
Any applicant is entitled to a review of any determination or action taken by the County regarding the applicant’s employment application. Inquiries should be directed to the County Human Resources Department.

PURPOSE
The purpose of this recruitment is to establish an eligible list from which to fill present and future vacancies in this classification in the County system. For each opening, the Department Head has her/his choice of the candidates who meet the required minimum entrance qualifications. This list remains in effect for three months unless exhausted or extended.