Talent.com
Paralegal - Children's Protective Services Division

Paralegal - Children's Protective Services Division

Harris CountyHouston, TX, US
job_description.job_card.1_day_ago
serp_jobs.job_preview.job_type
  • serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
job_description.job_card.job_description

Paralegal - Children's Protective Services Division

Overview

The Harris County Attorney's Office (HCAO) seeks a Paralegal to join the Children's Protective Services Division, which represents the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) in actions involving abused and neglected children in Harris County. Under the supervision of the Lead Attorney, the Paralegal will perform delegated and supervised substantive legal work, requiring an understanding of legal principles and procedures. The Paralegal will help ensure the smooth and timely preparation of cases from inception through trial and will act as a liaison between the courts, clerks, attorneys, and the public as needed.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Manages a high-volume caseload.
  • Prepares and processes legal documents and correspondences such as petitions, orders, affidavits, motions, responses, pleadings, decrees, citations, publications, case findings, statements of evidence, and discovery.
  • Researches and gathers information and records pertaining to legal cases.
  • Communicates with internal and external contacts regarding case-related matters and inquiries.
  • Prepares for trial by organizing exhibits and other tasks.
  • Creates, organizes, and maintains case files and records in the case management system.
  • Performs notary services as a Traditional and Online Notary Public in Texas for case-related matters.
  • Attends hearings and trials to hear oral arguments or record necessary case information.
  • Calendars hearings, docket control orders, notices, and deadlines for cases.
  • Serves as backup to other Paralegals and support staff as needed.
  • Participates in division meetings and other meetings regarding case-related matters.
  • Mentors and supports other staff and interns.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Position Details

  • Location : Houston, TX (Downtown)
  • Employment type : Full-time
  • Hours : Typically Monday–Friday, 8 : 00 AM–5 : 00 PM; hours may vary based on business needs
  • Compensation : Base and total compensation determined by qualifications and market considerations

    • Requirements

    Supporting Job Application Documents

  • Applicants should provide a cover letter, resume, and three (3) professional references with their application.

    • Education and Experience

  • Associate Degree or higher in Paralegal Studies or a closely related field
  • Paralegal certificate OR a minimum of five (5) years of experience as a paralegal

    • Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Excellent research, writing, and organizational skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Excellent interpersonal communication and collaboration skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, PDF editing, and case management tools
  • Familiarity with Texas Family Code, Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, Texas Rules of Professional Conduct, and Federal child welfare statutes
  • Knowledge of e-filing systems (Texas e-file and federal ECF / PACER)
  • Ability to perform in-person and online notary services
  • Ability to analyze legal and factual issues and exercise good judgment
  • Ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities
  • Ability to comply with Harris County policies and training requirements
  • Occasional extended hours as caseloads demand

    • Notes

  • Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on the job application. A resume may be attached, but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration.
  • Employment is contingent upon passing a background check.
  • Equal Opportunity Employer statement included per policy.

    • General Information

    Located in downtown Houston, the Harris County Attorney's Office represents Harris County government and related entities in civil matters. The office also provides legal advice to county officials and employees.

    Disclaimer

    Note : This job description is not designed to be a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities. Management may assign or reassign duties as needed.

    J-18808-Ljbffr

    serp_jobs.job_alerts.create_a_job

    Paralegal • Houston, TX, US