Legal Support Staff

Job Description

Legal Secretary | Allegheny County

The Tone:
This is a staff position at Allegheny County, located in Allegheny County, PA. Allegheny County is a public service organization dedicated to serving its residents through various governmental functions. This role is crucial in supporting the legal operations of the Office of the Public Defender, ensuring the accurate and timely processing of vital legal documents and information to maintain efficient legal processes.

The TL;DR
• Role: Legal Secretary
• Location: In-person, Allegheny County, PA
• Pay: $20.00 hourly
• Team: Part of the Office of the Public Defender
• Mission: Support legal staff by managing case data, preparing legal documents, and ensuring efficient office operations for the Office of the Public Defender.
• Tech Stack: Legal Edge, Microsoft Word, Excel, Windows, Outlook

What You’ll Actually Do
• Data Management: Enter case data into both manual and computerized database systems, specifically Legal Edge.
• Document Preparation: Prepare accurate and timely transcriptions of handwritten and dictated materials, including correspondence, interviews, memoranda, pleadings, and briefs.
• Filing & Organization: Perform a wide variety of filing tasks, such as opening and closing files, organizing materials, and ensuring timely delivery and transfer of files between divisions.
• Report Generation: Generate reports using statistical data drawn from both handwritten records and computerized information.
• Office Support: Answer phones, timely deliver messages to attorneys and staff, and complete case-related forms.

The Must-Haves
• Background: High school diploma or equivalent, with core domain knowledge in office administration, business, or a related field.
• Experience: Two (2) years of experience typing legal documents, including motions and briefs, or related experience; OR an Associate’s degree in Office Administration, Business, or a related field. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.
• Skills: Ability to type 45 WPM; proficiency in using standard office equipment including personal computers, typewriters, photocopiers, fax machines, and dictating equipment; effective oral and written communication skills; knowledge of basic PC operations (Microsoft Word, Excel, Windows, database systems like Legal Edge) and general office practices (filing, record keeping, proofreading).
• Bonus: Demonstrated commitment to working with diverse communities, prior experience in a law office setting, familiarity with the court system, practical experience in trials, mental health, appeals, or capital cases, and proficient computer skills with Microsoft Office Suite. Residency in Allegheny County is required within one year of employment. Veterans’ Preference will be awarded to eligible candidates.