Description:
This job description should not be interpreted as all-inclusive. It is intended to identify the essential functions and minimum qualifications of this job. The incumbent(s) may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this job description. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign job-related responsibilities and tasks to this job at any time. Certain functions are understood to be essential; these include, but are not limited to, attendance, getting along with others, working a full shift, and dealing with and working under stress. Any essential function of this class will be evaluated as necessary should an incumbent/applicant be unable to perform the function or requirement due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Reasonable accommodation for the specific disability will be made for the incumbent/applicant only to the extent medically and reasonably feasible.An Equal Opportunity Employer
Attention: certain duties are particular to case type and court and may not be performed by all employees.
Job Summary: Researches legal issues arising in any of the types of cases heard in the domestic relations, probate, civil, criminal, and juvenile divisions of Circuit Court; prepares memos outlining the legal research and/or prepares opinions or orders as requested by the Judge; drafts proposed orders for the court's review and approval; ensures attorney submitted orders are accurate and filed in a timely manner.
Essential Job Functions:
- Reviews case files prior to hearings to ensure procedural and substantive legal requirements are met and provides any additional case-related information the Judge requests.
- Researches and becomes knowledgeable on a wide range of legal issues and subjects heard in Circuit Court, including:
- Domestic relations law (divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, domestic violence, etc.)
- Probate law (decedent's estates, guardianships, adoptions, conservatorships, etc.)
- Civil law (constitutional law, personal injury, medical malpractice, breach of contract, appeals from administrative agencies, appeals from District Court, etc.)
- Criminal law
- Juvenile law
- Monitors changes in the law and in the rules of the Arkansas Supreme Court.
- Prepares a summary of each case prior to hearings to assist the Judge, including a summary of the facts and citations for any relevant case law.
- Researches legal issues and prepares memoranda and/or opinions for review by the Judge on issues related to any subjects addressed.
- Drafts court orders consistent with the Judge's rulings and decisions; e-file orders as needed.
- Maintains checklists and calendars to ensure orders are timely submitted by attorneys, and ensure the orders are accurate and filed in a timely manner.
- Reviews all incoming pleadings requiring the Judge's attention; coordinates requests for hearings with counsel and Trial Court Administrator.
- Analyzes motions that do not require hearings for procedural and substantive legal accuracy, as well as for the completeness of all information the Judge requires for adjudication; communicate with attorneys and self-represented litigants to obtain any missing, necessary documents before presenting the matter to the Judge for adjudication.
- Attends hearings and trials, noting legal issues requiring resolution.
- Maintains legal library and online research materials.
- Maintains knowledge of the Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure, Rules of Criminal Procedure, Rules of Evidence, and all other court rules that affect cases brought before the Court.
- Reviews and adheres to the Arkansas Code of Judicial Conduct and rules that affect the conduct of attorneys.
- Communicates with the Pulaski County Circuit Clerk's Office and the Perry County Circuit Clerk to obtain relevant information concerning case filings, orders, appeals, and other matters.
- Communicates with the Arkansas Supreme Court Clerk's Office regarding case filings, orders, appeals, and other matters.
- Communicates with Arkansas courts, out-of-state courts, and federal courts regarding inter-jurisdictional transfers, venue issues, jurisdiction issues, and other matters.
- Communicates with attorneys and self-represented litigants regarding case filings, submitted orders, hearings, appeals, and other matters.
- Assists the Judge as needed concerning new issues raised during hearings and trials by conducting research in an expedient manner.
- Conducts special projects as requested, e.g. organizing a trial binder for jury trials.
Performs Other Related Duties as Required.
Personnel Supervised: None
Working Conditions: Work Is Performed in A Smoking-Restricted Office Environment. May Occasionally Attend Court in Perry County.
Minimum Qualifications:
Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:
- Considerable Knowledge of Court Proceedings and Processes.
- Considerable Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local Laws, Regulations, and Precedents.
- Ability to Review, Handle, and Maintain Confidential Case Information in A Reliable and Secure Manner.
- Ability to Establish and Maintain Effective Working Relationships with The General Public, Attorneys, and Staff Members.
- Ability to Establish and Maintain a Detailed Case Management System.
- Ability to Conduct Legal Research Utilizing Previous Case Decisions and Law Interpretations.
- Ability to Prepare Legal Memoranda, Opinions, and Orders.
- Ability to Communicate Effectively in Writing.
- Ability to Work Within Strict Time Deadlines.
- Ability to Attend Work Regularly and Reliably.
- Skill in Analyzing and Interpreting Laws, Rules, and Regulations and Applying Them to Specific Situations.
- Skill in The Operation of A Computer and Related Software Including Microsoft Office and Court Management Software.
Physical Requirements:
- Visual Acuity Is Required for Use of A Computer Monitor.
- Digital Dexterity Is Necessary for Keyboard Operation.
- Ability to Orally Communicate Effectively, in Person, and By Telephone.
Education and Experience:
Completion of Juris Doctorate Degree from An Accredited Law School; Some Experience with Courtroom Procedures or A Related Area; or Any Equivalent Combination of Experience and Training Which Provides the Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities.