JOB TITLE:
Paralegal

LOCATION: County Attorney

JOB CLASS CODE: 1L12

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:
County Attorney

PAYGRADE: 11

FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt

General Definition of Work:

Performs responsible paraprofessional work in support of the professional legal staff of the County Attorney's Office. Work requires a broad knowledge of the laws of Virginia, research of complicated legal issues, preparation of legal documents, organization of evidence, regular contact with attorneys in the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit, Department Heads and employees of Albemarle County, and occasional executive secretarial and administrative tasks. Work is performed under general supervision.

Essential Functions:

• Conducts legal research, identifies relevant points of law, and summarizes findings in writing for attorneys;
• Assembles and organizes resource materials for use by attorneys;
• Reviews files for attorney signatures and attention;
• Prepares draft correspondence, memoranda, pleadings, ordinances and policy amendments;
• Researches ownership of land and abstract titles to real estate;
• Prepares legal descriptions of real estate;
• Prepares, files and records deeds, easements and other legal documents;
• Prepares draft reports and resolutions for board meetings;
• Supports civil penalty process;
• Supports legal review of proffers and special use permits;
• Prepares draft legal briefs, memoranda and forms for litigation;
• Prepares exhibits to be presented in court;
• Assists/supports attorneys in court;
• Produces and distributes supplements to the County Code and maintains an updated Code on the internet;
• Serves as support person for the County Attorney's Office in assisting legislative liaison during General Assembly sessions;
• Provides clerical and secretarial back-up to legal services assistant;
• Extensive contact with the public.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Substantial knowledge of legal procedures and resources of local government and its relationship to other local, state and federal agencies; ability to analyze complicated facts and legal issues and make logical legal-based recommendations to other professionals; ability to communicate effectively, orally, and in writing; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships including, but not limited to, County officials, County employees and attorneys. Extensive knowledge of legal research techniques and computer related technology.  Ability to maintain ethical and confidentiality standards in a legal environment.

Education and Experience: Experience or education equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university. Certification as a paralegal or legal assistant and two years of experience as a paralegal. Competence in on-line computer legal research, word processing and legal office procedures.

Physical Conditions and Nature of Work Contacts:

Administrative work typically performed sitting in an office with occasional walking, light lifting of office items up to 30 pounds; and other limited physical activities. Frequent sustained operation of office equipment is required. Occasional secretarial duties, in support of the attorneys. Regular contact is made with the office staff, County officials, County employees and attorneys. Contacts must be characterized by tact and diplomacy.