Paralegal

Summary

Under the supervision of the assigned supervisor/manager, performs a variety of clerical tasks involved in processing court cases. Activities include setting up case files, processing complaints and orders, scheduling proceedings, preparing correspondence and reports, entry of data and filing case documents. (Note this position exists in several areas of the Court so some additional information is included on the Family Division posting to describe job duties)

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

1. Establishes case files and files case documents; includes receiving petitions and examining for accuracy and completeness, entering case information into the case management system, and filing case reports and other documents.
2. Family Division: Schedules delinquency, neglect and abuse, and other hearings. Prepares and issues notices and summons, appoints attorneys, and enters into court calendar.
3. Family Division: Processes assignment of attorneys to represent youths requesting legal representation in accordance with court assigned counsel policy.
4. Reviews case files prior to court hearings; ensures summonses have been served and files are complete and ready for court proceedings.
5. Provides information via telephone and at the counter to parties, parents, youths, attorneys and the public regarding case status, scheduled proceedings, court policies and procedures and related matters.
6. Types and processes orders following court proceedings. Enters case dispositions into the computer.
7. Assist in training coworkers on daily tasks associated with work assignment as needed.
8. Prepares and processes bench warrants and/or writs of apprehensions, send warrants/writs to appropriate agencies and recalls when required.
9. Prepares correspondence, memos, reports and letters for court staff from machine dictation and longhand drafts.
10. Family Division: May receive billings from court appointed attorneys, verify accuracy, log billings and submit billings for payment.
11. May record court proceedings or assist in courtroom for hearing official.
12. May perform a variety of other tasks, such as assisting in the drawing and sequestering of jurors, closing case files, and other related tasks.
13. Works in other areas of the court as directed.

Job Qualifications

• A minimum of two years of experience in an office or clerical environment, preferably in a court or closely related setting.
• High school diploma required, some college or Associates degree preferred.
• Computer skills in word processing and spreadsheets.
• Inter-personal skills necessary to provide courteous and accurate information in responses to the public.
• Highly organized with strong record keeping experience.
• Proficient in the use of the English language including grammar, spelling and punctuation.
• Ability to handle simultaneous projects requiring concentration and attention to detail with frequent distractions due to people and/or telephone calls.
• Ability to handle pressures related to meeting deadlines and fulfilling scheduling requirements.

Certifications or Licensure

If required to record court proceedings, certification as a Certified Electronic Recorder (CER) or a Certified Electronic Operator (CEO) by the Michigan Supreme Court.

Supervisory Responsibilities                     

• None

Working Conditions

Hybrid Work Classification: On-Site Required
Flexibility Classification: Fixed Schedule