Kalamazoo Defender is an independent non-profit organization that provides legal representation to the adult indigent population charged with a crime within Kalamazoo County. We take a holistic approach, employing compassionate professionals who work with our clients to identify and address additional needs beyond their legal case. In collaboration with our robust network of area service providers, we aim to connect our clients with relevant support services.
We fight for justice in the courts, care in the community, and dignity in the world. Our mission is rooted in the conviction that poverty and various forms of discrimination put our clients on inequitable footing within and beyond our criminal justice system. Our job is to be their zealous defender in the face of these systemic barriers, fighting for them in court, organizing care for them in our community, and advocating for their inherent dignity in the broader world.
THE JOB:
Kalamazoo Defender is seeking a full-time Paralegal to provide vital support to our legal team by managing case files, drafting legal documents, overseeing attorney calendars, and serving as a key liaison with clients, court officials, and other stakeholders. This position collaborates closely with attorneys, client navigators, investigators, and receptionists, playing an integral role in Kalamazoo Defender’s holistic approach to indigent defense. The ideal candidate will be a highly organized and detail-oriented individual, with a passion for justice, excellent communication skills, and the ability to juggle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. They will be a true team player who exhibits a strong commitment to confidentiality, excels at building relationships with diverse individuals, and aligns closely with Kalamazoo Defender’s mission and values.
This role is crucial for ensuring the efficient and effective operation of legal processes, contributing to the organization’s commitment to high-quality legal representation.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Manage case files by accurately entering and maintaining detailed client information, notes, and data.
- Draft correspondence, pleadings, motions, and discovery documents; prepare exhibits and case files for hearings or trials.
- Oversee attorney calendars by scheduling client appointments, conferences, teleconferences, dispositions, recording and monitoring evidence-gathering and court appearance dates, pleadings, and filing requirements.
- Represent the attorney in communications with clients, their families, court officials, law
enforcement, and other relevant parties, while knowing when to refer matters to attorney.
- Serve as a liaison with prosecutors, probation officers, client navigators, social service providers, and other agencies and jurisdictions, ensuring clear and effective communication.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with clients, providing consistent communication and support from first client contact through case closure by answering or directing inquiries, communicating court dates, Village processes, and other responsibilities by telephone, email, text or in person.
- Process and file legal documents, subpoenas, and other client forms; obtain necessary documents through FOIA, subpoenas, and other discovery methods.
- Maintain confidentiality and uphold client confidence by safeguarding attorney-client information.
- Develop and utilize filing systems, document meeting discussions, maintain transcripts, and organize evidence.
- Enhance job knowledge and contribute to department reputation through ongoing professional development and by delivering excellence in all work products.
- Perform any other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall effectiveness and success of the defense team.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
- Expert keyboard and 10-key numeric data entry skills.
- Customer service-oriented with a commitment to confidentiality.
- Familiarity with criminal court procedures and documentation.
- Strong commitment to Kalamazoo Defender's mission and values.
- Commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, compassion, and integrity.
- Skill in working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to prioritize work tasks while working both collaboratively and independently.
- Impeccable time management.
- Demonstrated skills in documentation, scheduling, communications, and general office procedure, including familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
- Demonstrate cultural awareness and a commitment to working in an anti-racist workplace.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $46,577.00 - $56,257.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
Work Location: In person