What are the responsibilities and job description for the Trial Assistant position at Cumberland County Government?
Welcome to the role of Trial Assistant for Cumberland County in Portland, Maine! This position will allow you to be a part of a dynamic team working to support legal professionals in the courtroom. As a Trial Assistant, you will be responsible for providing administrative support to attorneys and other legal staff. You should be comfortable working independently as well as collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. If you are an organized and detail-oriented individual who is passionate about providing exceptional service, then this may be the perfect opportunity for you!
Job Responsibilities
- Logs all referred criminal cases for assigned police department, filing charging documents with the court, making copies of the report and complaint for discovery and for the office file.
- Maintains assigned case files neatly and accurately in both the physical and computerized files in the database.
- Ensures accurate records by making sure that files completely reflect dispositions, continuance dates and/or reasons for continuances.
- Assist victims and witnesses by maintaining contact, by preparing correspondence to them and providing them with information and assistance throughout the duration of any given case. This includes; notification of hearings, discussing restitution, explaining plea negotiations, Assistant District Attorney recommendations, and informing them of sentencing dates and accompanying distraught victims to court.
- Assist Assistant District Attorneys by helping them prepare for court, including setting up audio/video equipment in the courtroom for trials and motions as needed, being in court to provide clerical and administrative support services, and ensuring department’s ability to produce witnesses.
- Ensures all information drop downs and motions are prepared by typing same and getting them docketed by the court.
- Maintains the in-custody lists from the jail, including pulling the pending files for court and record keeping and/or process emergency in-custody cases.
- Prepares all court docket lists and gathering all case files and ensuring that the files are complete and in order for the court appearance.
- Prepares discovery in all criminal cases, which includes copying of police reports, DVD/CD’s, photographs and any materials that are discoverable under the Maine Rules of the court.
- Maintains accurate records by retrieving and processing and filing mail, criminal history reports, Department of Motor Vehicle paperwork, Public Health Laboratory, alcohol and drug analysis results on a daily basis.
Job Requirements
- High School diploma required. Associate’s Degree in legal administration or business preferred.
- Minimum of one to two years of related work experience, preferably in a law environment.
- Knowledge of how the Maine court system operates and familiarity with legal terms required.
- Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and handle details with precision and accuracy in a very fast paced office environment.
- Proficiency with computer operations and other related technology. Skill with Justware a plus.
- Notary Public helpful.
Cumberland County offers an excellent and comprehensive benefits package including health insurance with NO DEDUCTIBLE, an educational assistance program, and Maine State Retirement with social security contributions. Starting pay for a Trial Assistant is $20.37 per hour; higher hourly wage available depending on experience. We look forward to reviewing your application!
Cumberland County is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected Veteran status.
Salary : $20 - $22