CriminalParalegalAssistant_Louisville_Kentucky

We are currently looking for a Criminal Paralegal Assistant for a contract position with the Department of Justice / United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) with the Western District of Kentucky in Louisville, KY.  This is initially for a 1-year contract with 3 additional optional years (for a total of 4 years) with the USAO.  Candidates must be U.S. Citizens and be able to clear an extensive background check / clearance investigation by the Department of Justice.    The individual will provide the following support: Utilizes a variety of automated legal research tools, such as LexisNexis and Westlaw, as well as public information databases, including Pacer, and other automated resources to research case- or program-specific legal matters, and to participate in assigned areas of criminal or civil proceedings, e.g., electronic discovery. Prepares and maintains a variety case-related documents, e.g., discovery letters, exhibit lists, witness information, etc. Provides a variety of legal assistance and technical work requiring a specialized knowledge of rules, processes, procedures, and practices to support legal activities in Federal Court. Receive, review, and organize investigative material and documentary evidence received from investigative agencies. Notes deficiencies in case materials, e.g., missing documents, conflicting statements, and request further investigation by investigative personnel to correct deficiencies, or personally conducts limited investigations at the pre-trial stage. Maintains regular contact with law enforcement agencies to ensure provision of complete and timely cooperation in all aspects of assigned cases. Provides case organization and management in anticipation of trial or court presentation by preparing and organizing exhibits containing a variety of visual material, e.g., statistical charts and photographs. Compiles, organizes, and indexes various discovery and evidence exhibits for trial, witness testimony as it relates to specific criminal charge evidence, and develops and compiles jury instructions to assist AUSA in preparing for trial. Works closely with assigned attorney(s) to ensure material is efficiently arranged. Produces and provides the attorney the appropriate legal documents, information, exhibits, or witnesses at the appropriate time during those court proceedings. Prepares exhibits for trial which typically involves a wide range of visual materials including charts, diagrams, photographs, and models. Depending on the nature and complexity of the case, personally prepares trial exhibits, or initiates preparation by other appropriate staff or contractors to ensure timely production prior to the trial date. Maintains accounting systems for materials to be used as exhibits in grand jury proceedings and trials, prepares lists and tables to correlate the exhibits with grand jury transcripts, and keeps a strict account of the exhibits used in such proceedings. Provides advice to attorneys and other legal support staff on the most effective and efficient ways to prepare, present and maintain a variety of administrative legal documents, e.g., discovery letters, exhibit lists, jury instructions, and subpoenas. Performs a variety of administrative duties in support of the assigned AUSAs, which typically involves automation support or other administrative tasks. Automation support may include: o   Using one or more types of personal computer (PC) based software, develops methods for automating reports, statistical data, text, and graphics. o   Using established databases, performs data searches, report design, and other data retrieval assignments. o   Serves as contact person for assigned cases and provides information and assistance concerning status or relevant procedural issues. Exercises discretion and judgment in determining what information may be provided and to whom.   Qualifications: Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies. Two years of paralegal experience required. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office software programs (i.e., Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook). Works and interacts professionally and effectively with all levels of staff. Meeting and dealing with people in a courteous and tactful manner. Organizational skills. Required to prove U.S. citizenship and that the contractor personnel meet the Department of Justice residency requirements. Must be able to pass (obtain) a favorable security clearance.