Salary Range: $48,380 - $77,875
 

Purpose of Classification: 

The purpose of this classification is to conduct legal research, assist with processing court documentation, and provide administrative support to the department.   

Essential Functions:  

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned. 

Conducts preliminary investigations; reviews cases; conducts research to determine appropriate jurisdiction; reviews rules of procedure and calendar deadlines; gathers and evaluates initial facts, documents and evidence; interviews clients; runs and reviews criminal histories; enters information into department database; prepares case documentation for transfer as needed; forwards information to attorneys for prosecution; and maintains all related documentation. 

Conducts discovery investigations; drafts and/or reviews interrogatories, requests for admissions, and requests for production of documents; coordinates collection and review of client files and documents; gathers, organizes, summarizes and analyzes data; drafts and/or reviews responses to discovery requests; locates and retains expert witnesses; prepares chronologies; and reviews hearing notices and publications. 

Manages document production; obtains and reviews all documents in client’s possession; conducts initial review for privilege; confers with attorney to determine which documents to produce; organizes and manages document production and litigation support, including reviewing, indexing, organizing, and analyzing documents; and follows up on outstanding discovery requests. 

Participates in trial preparation and execution; prepares pleading, deposition and trial notebooks with key documents and witness files; discusses court room etiquette with clients and witnesses; coordinates appearance of expert witnesses; organizes, marks and indexes trial exhibits; monitors and coordinates exchange of trial exhibits; manages evidence and equipment; attends jury selection; maintains jury information and details; and assists attorney during trial as needed. 

Drafts and responds to formal motions and briefs; performs research and compiles necessary information for motions and briefs; prepares exhibits; researches and confirms validity of case history; reviews, proofs, and submits documentation to appropriate personnel; and coordinates the service of briefs and court filings. 

May attend calendar call for Temporary Protection Orders; records responses; distributes calendars to staff for further investigation; contacts petitioners who fail to appear; provide information regarding case status and explains civil justice processes, etc.; makes referrals regarding counseling, shelter, child care or other services; and reports findings and makes recommendations to judge.   

May conduct  research  of code and uniform rules related to the matters of family law and maintains a good working knowledge of all statutes related to child custody, support and visitation.  Assists the public with completion of work sheets and schedules mandated by Georgia law.   

 

Minimum Qualifications: 

Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice, Paralegal Studies or related field; two years of experience as a paralegal; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities for this job. 

Specific License or Certification Required:  Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license; and must possess and maintain Paralegal certification.