Judicial Assistant

Position Summary and Job Duties

Assists the Judge in the effective operation of the Court, making sure everything runs efficiently, smoothly and in accordance with established practices, procedures and instructions.

55% Administrative Work

• Types opinions, correspondence and decisions and prepare reports, dispositions, memoranda, agendas, jury instructions, orders and notices.
• Assists with file and record acquisitions.
• Organizes and maintains judge’s files and records.
• Acts as receptionist in answering telephone and handling visitors.
• Maintains e-files and records for the Judge.
• Obtains Judges signatures on all documents, seals documents, and distributes to proper court clerks and other agencies.
• Types all correspondence, memorandum decisions, pre-trial orders, letters and substitution of Judge forms.
• Updates and maintains the Judge's bench book and jury instruction books.
• Composing and typing correspondence for the Judge.

40% Branch Management

• Assists with calendar management including: scheduling of court hearings, trials, conferences, legal appointments, meetings and activities of the judge, and holding scheduling conferences.
• Updates weekly calendar and distributes to all interested parties.
• Prepares requisition of office supplies.
• Contacts attorneys and parties concerning court dates, appointments, and cancellations.
• Prepares and types jury instructions.
• Assumes duties of bailiff in absence.
• Assists defendants get court date.
• Tracks pending case on a monthly basis and preparation of reporting to the Judge.

5% Performs work as directed by the Judge

Success Factors (KSA's)

• Ability to maintain high level of confidentiality, discretion, and integrity.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, procedures, and equipment.
• Knowledge of the court system, court procedures, case types, legal knowledge in general and of the courts software programs.
• Skills in typing and note taking.
• Working knowledge of computer software including but not limited to Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Working knowledge of office equipment including but not limited to computers, copy and fax machines and telephones.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to communicate clearly, concisely and tactfully with attorneys, co-workers, and the public.
• Ability to multi-task/triage level of urgency/importance.
• Ability to use word processing.
• Ability to exercise judgment and diplomacy.
• Ability to learn computerized records management.
• Ability to maintain focus under pressure.
• Ability to answer and compose correspondence.
• Maintain prompt and regular attendance

Job Requirements, Education, Training & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Associate degree in Legal secretarial science or para-legal program or certificate.
• Minimum five (5) years work experience in the legal field and/or court system.
• Minimum keyboard speed of 50 net words per minute.
• Strong computer skills
• A combination of training and experience will be considered.

Essential Job Functions (physical elements, equipment and working conditions)