Legal Assistant

Under attorney supervision, provides civil litigation and legal secretarial and administrative support services. Handles assigned tasks in supporting document and contract preparation, office and file organization and other related duties. Legal Assistant positions are non-career civil service and serve at the pleasure of the County Attorney.

Salary will be determined depending on qualifications of candidates who exceed the minimum requirements as outlined within the job description.

Additional compensation based on licensure.

Note:  These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.

Prepares and word processes correspondence, pleadings, ordinances and resolutions, agreements, leases, summaries, tabulations and other reports as needed.

Opens and maintains files and records.

Communicates well, both orally and in writing, especially in use of the telephone; takes calls and answers inquiries in a courteous manner; opens and distributes mail; acts as receptionist as necessary.

Operates standard office equipment such as a word processor (and its related office programs), copy machine, fax machine, scanner, typewriter and calculator as necessary for satisfactory completion of assigned duties.

E-files pleadings with state and federal courts.

Assists in coordination of scheduling depositions; preparing and forwarding summonses and subpoenas; preparing and filing discovery requests and responses to discovery requests.

Maintains client confidence by keeping client/attorney information confidential.

Conducts research as necessary to complete assignments.

Enhances trial proceedings by organizing evidence; preparing exhibits; scheduling witnesses; and ensuring that witnesses are ready when needed.

Provides general and litigation assistance relative to property acquisition, eminent domain and related matters.

Tracks, maintains, and ensures that funds are appropriately directed into the Court Registry.

Provides technical guidance and training.

Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications.

Accomplishes organization goals by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.

Additional Duties:

Performs other duties as assigned.

In the event of an emergency, all employees are considered essential personnel and may be required to perform alternate duties.

A two-year Associates degree and, if not part of the Associates degree program, separate completion of a recognized paralegal program are required. In addition, five (5) years' experience in the legal or other related field is required.

A comparable amount of education, training, or experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications.

Knowledge of title search procedures and all aspects of preparing and recording of official land records. Must have knowledge of and ability to use problem solving techniques. Extensive knowledge of Business English, spelling, punctuation, legal terminology, modern office practices and procedures, including record keeping methods.

Ability to prepare draft contracts and other legal documents related to the property acquisition process to assist attorneys. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other County personnel, property owners and the general public. Must have the ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments.  Must have the ability to provide litigation support in eminent domain cases, construction law cases and other litigation.

Must have the ability to provide information and advice to others involved in property acquisition and eminent domain processes. Considerable ability to compose effective and accurate correspondence. Ability to assume responsibility and execute supervisor's instructions with authority.

Ability to organize office work flow and provide technical guidance and training to subordinates. Ability to maintain filing systems and records.

Must possess a valid driver's license issued by the State of Florida. Must possess the ability to type 60 correct words per minute; prefer 70 correct words per minute.

All employees must attend Seminole County required trainings.

Department specific trainings per position may be required.