Paralegal or Judicial Assistant to District Judge

About the role

Provides administrative and law-related support to a United States District Judge and chambers staff. Performs legal research, proofreading, document preparation, case management, calendar coordination, travel administration, records maintenance, and liaison functions.

Ensures efficient chambers operations while maintaining confidentiality, professionalism, and compliance with court policies and procedures.

What you will do

• Perform administrative duties using computer applications to prepare documents and correspondence.
• Receive, screen, and answer phone calls.
• Receive and assist visitors.
• Respond to basic questions related to the status and scheduling of cases.
• Review legal documents as assigned by the judge for completeness and accuracy.
• Conduct legal research using source material or the internet.
• Proofread legal drafts for completeness and accuracy.
• Check legal citations for accuracy using legal research tools.
• Search court records and briefs to verify facts and quotes.
• Serve as chambers liaison to the general public and internal and external agencies such as the Administrative Office of U.S. Courts, Office of the United States' Attorney, U.S. Marshal's Office, Office of the Federal Public Defender and the U.S. General Services Administration.
• Arrange and manage the judge's calendar and travel logistics.
• Monitor deadlines, prioritize tasks, and occasionally determine a need for action by the judge.
• Monitor caseload, organize filings and correspondence related to cases, log motions and other actions.
• Review daily reports (electronic and paper) to identify new filings.
• Screen cases for potential conflict.
• Maintain and update law libraries within Chambers.
• Maintain chambers information storage and filing systems (electronic and paper) for case filings, correspondence, publications and other documents.
• Maintain the recusal list, and financial disclosure report for the judge.
• File orders, notices, and opinions in the court's electronic filing system.
• Create and update templates and standard documents for orders, motions, and other related documents.
• Make travel arrangements and prepare travel vouchers for reimbursement purposes.
• Arrange meetings and conference agendas.
• Maintain office supplies and inventory of property assigned to chambers.
• Place calls for repair of office equipment.
• Coordinate the assignments of chambers staff.
• Distribute information and assignments to law clerks or other personnel.
• Provide orientation and training to law clerks and other personnel regarding judge's style and preferences and court administrative protocols.
• Maintain and certify time, attendance, and leave records for chambers staff.
• Provide assistance on automated systems and software for chambers staff.
• Compile and arrange information and data and prepare required periodic reports regarding court and noncourt activities.
• Perform a wide variety of special projects at the request of the judge which may include event planning or related tasks.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizen or eligible to work in the United States Required to use Electronic Fund Transfer for payroll Adhere to a Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees

Education

Judicial Assistant: High school diploma or equivalent required. College coursework, a bachelor's degree, or education in a legal or paralegal curriculum may be substituted for qualifying experience in accordance with Judiciary qualification standards.

Paralegal: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university or a paralegal certificate from an accredited paralegal program required. A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree may qualify an individual for placement at higher grade levels in accordance with Judiciary qualification standards.

How you will be evaluated

Resume and application will be rated against required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Documents you must provide

• Cover Letter Resume Judicial Branch Application (Form AO 78) Educational Credentials (transcripts, diploma, paralegal certificate, or other supporting educational documentation)

Benefits

Health, Dental, Vision, and Life insurance; Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays; Retirement (FERS); Thrift Savings Plan; Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care; Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Work Life Services; Workers' Compensation Program; and Employee Wellness Program.

What to expect next

Only individuals selected for interview will be contacted.