At a Glance
- Tasks: Support litigation attorneys by drafting legal documents and managing case files.
- Company: Join a dynamic legal team in the City of Springfield.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on community service and legal excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the legal field while developing essential skills.
- Qualifications: High school diploma required; paralegal certificate preferred with relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Responsible for supporting litigation attorneys in their handling of cases in suit. Assists in the drafting and preparation of contracts, opinions, and other legal documents for the Department of Law. Work is performed under the supervision of the City Solicitor, Deputy City Solicitor, and Chief of Litigation.
Essential Functions:
- Drafts various discovery documents and prepares responses from the City to the plaintiff.
- Analyzes returned documents and maintains litigation case files.
- Prepares various draft motions, notices, releases, authorizations, answers and other documents that need to be filed in court.
- Coordinates depositions, pre-deposition, pre-trial consultations and fact finding meetings for City Attorneys.
- Maintains schedules for attorneys and coordinates appearances in City cases.
- Manages document creation and filing for Attorneys.
- Coordinates and/or processes subpoenas for records and attendance of employees at court proceedings.
- Provides notary service for various City departments.
- Supports all Attorneys as needed on non-litigation matters.
- Tracks, responds to and maintains a log of public records requests.
- Coordinates the production of the response to any such request by drafting correspondence, redacting, copying, scanning and producing the response in coordination with Law Department staff and municipal departments in a timely fashion, in compliance with legal mandates.
- Tracks and maintains a log of contracts being drafted and completed.
- Assists legal staff in performing legal research and organizing files.
- Performs other related duties as required.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities:
- Working knowledge of the Massachusetts legal process and City of Springfield General Ordinances.
- Working knowledge of federal and Massachusetts general laws, rules of civil procedure, rules of court and rules of appellate procedure.
- Working knowledge of the principles, methods, materials, and practices of legal research and investigation.
- Ability to analyze and assist in the preparation of legal documents and instruments.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, municipal officials, and the general public.
- Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Education And Experience:
- High School Diploma or equivalent required; Paralegal certificate preferred.
- Minimum of five (5) years of prior paralegal, legal secretary, administrative or clerical work.
Paralegal employer: City of Springfield Human Resources
As a Paralegal with the City of Springfield, you will thrive in a supportive and collaborative work environment that values your contributions to the legal team. The City offers competitive benefits, opportunities for professional development, and a commitment to public service, making it an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful work in the legal field. Join us in a role where your skills will directly impact the community while enjoying a culture that promotes growth and teamwork.
Contact Details:
City of Springfield Human Resources Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, attend local events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a paralegal position that’s not even advertised yet!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of Massachusetts legal processes and the City of Springfield's ordinances. Show them you’re not just a paralegal but a knowledgeable asset ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it’s drafting documents or speaking with attorneys, being clear and concise is key. Consider mock interviews or role-playing scenarios to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got a range of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Paralegal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Paralegal position. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in drafting legal documents and supporting litigation attorneys, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Show Off Your Skills:We want to see your working knowledge of the Massachusetts legal process and your ability to analyse legal documents. Be sure to include specific examples of how you've used these skills in your previous roles to make your application stand out.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, express yourself clearly and concisely. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and keep it professional yet approachable. This is your chance to show us your written communication skills!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at City of Springfield Human Resources
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Brush up on your knowledge of the Massachusetts legal process and the City of Springfield General Ordinances. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the job requirements, especially in drafting legal documents and understanding civil procedures.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role involves managing schedules and coordinating appearances, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully organised complex tasks in the past. Highlight any tools or methods you use to keep everything on track.
✨Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing. You might even want to prepare a few examples of how you've communicated complex legal concepts to non-legal audiences.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This position requires working closely with attorneys and other departments. Be ready to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Emphasise your ability to build effective working relationships and support your team in achieving common goals.
