General Description;

The Paralegal performs difficult paraprofessional, skilled clerical and administrative work in the operation of the department and does other related work as required.  In accordance with Section 2-112 192 of the City Code, this position reports directly to and serves at the pleasure of the City Attorney.    

The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this job. The City Attorney may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the job, as necessary. 

Essential Functions: 

The primary function the Paralegal for the Office of the City Attorney is to provide support to the City Attorney in his provision of legal services to the City.   Receives all incoming calls and requests for legal services.   Serves as the main conduit for the receipt and dissemination of information from the Office of the City Attorney. Researches and manages case files and other legal documents of the City.              

Drafts deeds, affidavits, briefs, discovery, and other documents related to legal matters being handled by the Office of the City Attorney.              

Assists the City Attorney or his designee in handling case investigative work.              

Assists in interviews of witnesses and complainants to prepare the attorneys for trial.              

May be called upon to attend trials and hearings.              

Assists with case investigations and document searches.   Prepares exhibit books and other materials.              

Maintains incoming and outgoing mail logs and ensures that all incoming and outgoing documents are property date stamped and logged.               

Handles all docketing and scheduling of hearings, meetings, and other matters.  Is responsible for maintaining the office calendar.            

Prepares subpoenas witnesses for trials.  Schedules court reporters for trials and hearings.            

Assists in the preparation of monthly and annual budgets and prepares payment vouchers. Performs desktop publishing of the City Code to update all adopted ordinance and upload and maintain the City Code on the City webpage. 

Manages law library in the office and orders legal publications for attorneys. Submits timesheets for office personnel. Enters payment vouchers for payment. Reviews court dockets makes necessary scheduling updates to the office calendar. 

Coordinates and schedules appointments for the city Attorney with groups of City Officials. Tracks office supply inventory and places necessary orders for replenishing supplies. 

Coordinates Council Agenda Items with Clerk of Council. May supervise additional support staff and department assigned interns

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to an Associate Degree or Certification as a Paralegal from an accredited college or university, and considerable experience in progressively responsible paralegal work.  

Two or more years’ experience as a paralegal for a municipality or private firm that practices municipal government law is required. Knowledge of the Virginia legal system, criminal litigation, legal case management techniques and terminology.   

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:   

Possession of a valid Virginia driver’s license or the ability to obtain it.  Membership in a Local Government Paralegal’s Association Paralegal certification preferred.

Americans with Disabilities Act Compliance 

The City of Petersburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.   ADA requires The City of Petersburg to provide adequate accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.