Law Graduate
Chautauqua County is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Law Graduate. This is para-professional legal work of a substantive nature within a County law office for individuals who have completed their Juris Doctorate and are awaiting results of the New York State Bar Exam.
The position involves performing paraprofessional and administrative legal tasks, including delegated legal work, in support of attorneys. The incumbent exercises independent judgment in carrying out assigned responsibilities under the supervision of one or more attorneys.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:
- Prepares County contracts, real estate documents, legal opinions, and local legislation for attorney review
- Drafts pleadings, motions, orders, and other court documents for final review by an attorney
- May attend meetings of the County Legislature, boards, and commissions
- Reviews County policies and compliance procedures
- Assists with trials and administrative hearings, including research, witness preparation, and courtroom support
- Assists in post-trial activities, including reviewing decisions, preparing motions, and conducting legal research
- Conducts legal and general research using electronic and web-based tools (statutes, case law, court decisions)
- Performs property title searches and document retrieval from courts and clerk’s offices
- Reviews legal files for estate recovery actions and prepares related documents (affidavits, probate petitions, etc.)
- Reviews deeds and real property documents to determine appropriate legal actions
- Manages assigned caseloads through final attorney review and ensures timely follow-up
- Files legal documents and correspondence; reviews court filings for accuracy
- Serves as liaison with clients, caseworkers, courts, and other agencies
- Responds to inquiries and researches legal issues for County departments
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:
- Working knowledge of County law, New York State law, legal procedures, and law office operations
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex legal materials
- Strong legal research and writing skills
- Ability to prepare accurate and professional legal documents
- Ability to work independently while supporting attorneys
- Strong communication skills (oral and written)
- Proficiency with computers and legal software applications
- Familiarity with court systems and procedures
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
- Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a Juris Doctorate AND eligibility to take the New York State Bar Exam; OR
- Completion of the New York State Bar Exam with results pending
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person