Paralegal - Holistic Division

About the Harris County Public Defender’s Office: The Harris County Public Defender's Office (HCPDO) is one of the largest public defender offices in the nation, employing more than 350 professionals, including over 200 attorneys. Our office provides client-centered, holistic representation to individuals accused of criminal offenses in Harris County through interdisciplinary teams that include attorneys, investigators, social workers, mitigation specialists, psychologists, client advocates, paralegals, and administrative professionals. HCPDO is committed to providing high-quality legal representation and advancing excellence in indigent defense through interdisciplinary advocacy.

Position Overview: The Holistic Division of HCPDO seeks a dedicated, organized, and detail-oriented paralegal to support civil attorneys representing PDO clients in a variety of legal matters, including record sealing, administrative license revocation (ALR), parole revocation, Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) proceedings, civil protective orders, and asset forfeiture. The paralegal will assist with case preparation, legal research, document management, court filings, and client communication while working collaboratively with attorneys and other members of the defense team.

Duties and Responsibilities: Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:• Prepare, draft, format, and organize pleadings, motions, orders, discovery materials, legal forms, correspondence, and other case-related documents.

• Maintain case calendars, track court deadlines, and monitor scheduling orders and docket control orders.
• Prepare and electronically file legal documents in state, federal, and appellate courts, as applicable.
• Assist with obtaining necessary authorizations, court orders, and medical, employment, educational, and other relevant records.
• Coordinate client meetings and assist with client interviews and assessments, as appropriate.
• Facilitate communication among clients, attorneys, court personnel, outside agencies, and other members of the defense team.
• Maintain organized and accurate case files, records, and documentation.
• Keep assigned attorneys informed of case developments, deadlines, and outstanding tasks.
• Conduct legal research as requested and assist attorneys with case preparation, hearings, and trials.
• Work collaboratively with attorneys, mitigation specialists, social workers, and other members of the interdisciplinary team.
• Provide administrative support, including answering phones, preparing correspondence, filing, and copying, as needed to support division operations.
• Provide coverage and assistance to other paralegals or administrative staff as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Division Chief or assistant public defenders.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email [email protected].

This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate. Education and Experience:

• An Associates degree or higher in Paralegal Studies from an accredited college or university

OR

• Paralegal certificate

OR

• Bachelor’s degree in legal support services/legal studies from an accredited college or university

OR

• At least five (5) years of experience as a paralegal.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Adobe Acrobat.

NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

• Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred.

• Experience working in a criminal defense, public defense, civil litigation, legal aid, or similar legal environment.

• Knowledge of criminal procedure, civil procedure, rules of evidence, and court filing requirements.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple assignments and meet deadlines.

• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively with attorneys and interdisciplinary team members.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate professionally and respectfully with clients, colleagues, and court personnel.

• Ability to adapt to changing priorities, learn new procedures, and respond effectively to the defense team's needs.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive client information with discretion and professionalism.

• Demonstrated commitment to public service, client-centered representation, and working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Position Type and Typical Hours of Work:

• Regular Full-time

• Hours will be discussed during departmental interview.

Salary:

• Depends on Qualifications

• Based on 26 pay periods

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.

Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.