Stanford Law School seeks a full-time Paralegal to support the work of the clinics within the Mills Legal Clinic (MLC). The mission of all of the clinics within MLC is to provide law students with the practical experience of working with real clients and communities on real cases under the supervision of clinical faculty while offering superb pro bono representation to underserved individuals, communities and nonprofit organizations.
PURPOSE
The Paralegal will have substantial legal support and supervisory responsibilities in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment involving competing priorities and deadlines. The Paralegal will perform a full range of litigation paralegal responsibilities related to all aspects of representing indigent clients before state court, federal court, and administrative tribunals. Applicants should have significant experience supporting litigation, preferably in both state and federal courts, enjoy both team and independent work, and possess the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues, Mills Legal Clinic clients and with external organizations.
Candidates should also have proven excellent time management and interpersonal skills, as well as exercise strong attention to detail. The Paralegal will contribute to the dual teaching and service missions of the MLC and will become part of the thriving clinical community at Stanford Law School. This position reports to the faculty directors of the assigned clinics and to the Director of Operations of the Mills Legal Clinic.
Core Duties:
Prepare documents, including legal correspondence, and organize and maintain documents in paper or an electronic filing system.
Perform non-clerical, substantive legal work in assisting an attorney.
Gather and analyze research data, such as statutes, decisions, and legal articles, codes and documents.
Investigate facts and law and search pertinent sources, such as public records, to support claims, cases and legal defenses.
ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Help to train, supervise, and assign the work of a Legal Administrative Assistant, who will perform administrative responsibilities associated with legal representation
Conduct legal intakes with prospective clinic clients and perform other non-clerical administrative duties associated with taking on new clients for representation, including compliance with MLC's conflict of interest policies
Preparation and filing of evidentiary support for legal pleadings, including collection and development of exhibits, such as drafting of witness statements and collection of factual records from hospitals, criminal court, schools, and mental health facilities
Preparation and filing of complex legal briefs in trial and appellate courts, including creation of tables of authority and assistance with document production and formatting consistent with court rules
Conduct procedural research necessary for the filing of legal materials with state and local courts and administrative agencies
Proofread and check legal documents for accuracy and compliance with court rules; filing and service of legal documents in accordance with applicable rules
Manage the clinics' litigation calendars, as well as coordinate and manage attorney schedules and activities, including all logistics
Create and maintain complex filing systems, both electronic (via online case management system) and paper-based
Develop and demonstrate familiarity with statutes, regulations, and other legal authority relevant to representation of clinic clients
Support and provide guidance to law student involvement in litigation and office procedures, consistent with clinical teaching best practices, including management of student State Bar certification and conflict of interest clearance processes as required
Manage client/case information and instruct incoming students in the use of client case management database, time-keeping software, calendaring, and other clinic specific applications.
Screen telephone calls from prospective clients and others seeking assistance from the clinic, responding independently to general inquiries when appropriate, and making swift and accurate judgments in forwarding inquiries and requests to attorneys or other offices
Prioritize and juggle multiple projects simultaneously and independently, often under pressure and in a fast-paced environment
Plan and organize clinic-specific and/or departmental events and activities
Participate in MLC teambuilding, projects and meetings
Assist with other projects as needed including administrative tasks for the larger clinical program
MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Two-year college degree or equivalent, and three years of related experience or possess at least one of the following three requirements:
Completion of a paralegal certificate program approved by the American Bar Association (ABA)
Completion of 24 semester units of paralegal education at a state-approved or accredited institution
Completion of a bachelor's degree in any field combined with one year of law-related experience under the supervision of a three-year California-licensed lawyer or a lawyer working in California's federal courts
Must also complete continuing legal education every two years in order to lawfully perform services or identify self as a paralegal in the state of California.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of how to research legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, etc.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to multitask effectively
Proficiency in computer applications and a good understanding of databases (systems used: Word, PowerPoint, Excel,Best Authority, Google Mail, Skype, Westlaw/Lexis, Clio)
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Exercise good judgment
Additional Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Proven ability to independently exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, take initiative, and be flexible and professional at all times
Proactive work style and history of collaborative teamwork
Litigation and legal administrative experience with proven ability to perform in a fast-paced law office environment working with multiple supervisors, and interacting well with a variety of personalities
Previous supervisory skills strongly preferred
Ability to prioritize, problem solve and efficiently manage time to meet deadlines
Strong proofreading and writing skills
Commitment to public service strongly preferred
* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS
May work extended hours during peak business cycles.
Why Stanford is for YOU? Stanford University has revolutionized the way we live and enrich the world. We seek talent driven to impact the future of our legacy. Our culture and unique perks empower you with:
Freedom to grow. We offer career development programs, tuition reimbursement, and the ability to audit a course. Join a TedTalk, film screening, or listen to a renowned author or global leader speak.
A caring culture. We provide superb retirement plans, generous time-off, and family care resources.
A healthier you. Climb our rock wall or choose from hundreds of health or fitness classes at our world-class exercise facilities. We also provide excellent health care benefits.
Discovery and fun. Stroll through historic sculptures, trails, and museums. (When we can return to campus)
Does your experience differ, but you know that you could do an outstanding job in this role? We want to hear from you!
Applicants must:
Submit a resume and cover letter via the Stanford Careers website referencing job number [95510]
Applications should be submitted as soon as possible and will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled with an anticipated start date in late August.
Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Stanford Law School seeks to hire the best talent and to promote a safe and secure environment for all members of the university community and its property. To that end, new staff hires must successfully pass a background check prior to starting work at Stanford University.
Why work at Stanford?Stanford University has changed the world, over and over again.We are one of Silicon Valley's largest employers - and also one of the most unique. Our mission is to educate future leaders and promote interdisciplinary, world-class research and teaching. This passion makes Stanford an intensely creative, rewarding, and challenging place to work. At the same time, our traditions of respect and collaboration sustain a humane, supportive environment in which to pursue your life and your career.At Stanford you'll work with bright, diverse, dedicated people. You'll find encouragement to learn and grow. You'll enjoy excellent benefits and an outstanding environment. How will it change you?
