Paralegal
Description
Our Mission: Arapahoe County Department of Human Services (ACDHS) builds strong communities by promoting the safety, independence and stability of individuals and families.
Our Vision: To end the cycle of poverty and prevent abuse and neglect of children and vulnerable adults (using an integrated Two-Generation approach)
ACDHS uses an integrated Two-Generation (2Gen) approach to address all of the basic human services needs of the entire family unit. The 2Gen approach begins with a mindset focused on family-centered program design, continues with the alignment of services and resources within the department as well as across multiple organizations, resulting in coordinated services to children and adults together (family) in order to create long term stability and sustainability.
The 2Gen approach builds well-being for families by focusing equally and intentionally on high-quality services in five areas of focus: early childhood education, adult education and employment pathways, economic security, health and well-being and social capital. This approach will help us achieve our core mission of breaking the generational cycle of poverty, preventing neglect and abuse and building strong communities.
The Human Services Paralegal performs a variety of paralegal duties in order to assist the Arapahoe County Attorney's Office in the collections of overpayments of welfare benefits, the representation of the Department of Human Services in cases concerning Food Assistance, Colorado Works, Adult Financial and Medicaid benefits and Adoption Assistance payments, and the investigations in to welfare fraud.
Duties
Preparation of documents including, but not limited to, memoranda, correspondence, pleadings, motions, orders, affidavits, notices, default judgments, promissory notes, garnishments, contracts and licenses.
Perform docketing functions including, but not limited to, docket preparation and processing, hearing preparation, deadline dates, court appearances and hearing dates.
Attendance at court with attorneys, filing of documents at court and obtaining documents from court.
Arrange for proper service of process including, but not limited to, subpoenas, complaints and summonses, notices of revival of judgment, and writs of garnishment; follow up to confirm service and preparation and submission of proof of service.
Gathering information related to benefits received by clients, employment information of clients, whereabouts of clients, as well as reviewing and analyzing documentation.
Frequent contact with clients by telephone and in person.
Assist in hearing preparation.
Organization of documents and files.
Maintenance of databases.
Conduct legal research as requested by attorney.
General office duties, including filing, mailing and answering and returning phone calls.
Performs other duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
Knowledge of personal computer word and data processing, use of computer calendars, e-mail systems and of general office equipment.
Knowledge of court system and various court processes.
Knowledge of ICCES (e-filing) and ECF (electronic case filing for bankruptcy).
Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with attorneys, coworkers, other employees, elected officials, professional representatives, clients, the court, other counsel, supervisors and the general public.
Ability to process factual information effectively and to apply it to the case at hand.
Ability to work effectively and in a timely manner when faced with a high volume of work, multiple deadlines, frequent interruptions and dealing with difficult individuals.
Ability to demonstrate effective customer service skills.
Ability to work both independently and as a team member.
Must be highly organized, a self-starter, and excel at problem solving.
Experience and/or knowledge of the Two-Generation Approach.
Demonstrate knowledge of family engagement strategies and interviewing principles.
Strong interpersonal skills to build partnerships.
Ability to work collaboratively with all ACDHS programs, staff, and existing community partners.
Requirements
EDUCATION:
Paralegal degree or certificate from an A.B.A approved school or a Bachelor's Degree in a social science required.
EXPERIENCE:
Three (3) years preferred experience as a paralegal or law clerk in a law office, court environment or governmental law environment. May consider experience as a legal secretary or legal assistant.
SUBSTITUTION:
Three (3) years additional experience as a paralegal may be substituted for the degree or certificate.
Supplemental Information
This position requires successful completion of pre-employment background and motor vehicle checks and post-employment fingerprint check.
Must maintain a good driving record in accordance with Arapahoe County Risk Management Guidelines.
The salary grade listed is the full salary range for the paralegal position. Please note that the hiring salary will typically be near the lower end of the pay range listed.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The following are some of the physical demands commonly associated with this position:
Constantly requires sitting for long periods of time.
Constantly requires hearing, speaking and writing.
Frequently requires standing for periods of time.
Frequently requires keyboarding skills, use of telephone and fax/copier equipment.
Frequently requires reading documents and proofreading documents.
Frequently requires ability to travel to and from court and other locations.
Occasionally lifts and carries up to 15 pounds when moving office supplies, files and books.
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Toll Free Applicant Technical Support:
If you experience technical difficulty with the NEOGOV system (i.e. uploading or attaching documents to your online application), call NEOGOV technical support at 855-524-5627. Helpful hints: if you are having difficulty uploading or attaching documents to your application, first, ensure your documents are PDF or Microsoft Word files, and second, close the document before you attempt uploading (attaching) it.
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