Neighborhood Improvement Paralegal at CITY OF MEMPHIS in Memphis, Tennessee

Job Description:

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:  Works under the direct supervision of the Neighborhood Improvement Administrator and the assigned Attorney to provide legal assistance by researching law, investigating facts and preparing documents regarding blight related prosecutions.  Researches and summarizes relevant articles in trade magazines, law reviews, published studies, financial reports, etc.  Prepares opinions, briefs and other legal documents regarding blight related endeavors.  Prepares digests of selected decisions and opinions which incorporate legal references and analysis of precedents involved in law. Interviews potential witnesses and prepares summary for attorney's review.  Serves a liaison with clients, experts, and consultants to coordinate information, documents, procedures, and deadlines.  Creates and edits non-legal memoranda, research reports, and correspondence relating to cases. Participates in pre-trial witness conferences. Documents and records any deficiencies in case materials or additional matters requiring investigation prior to trial. Gathers and organizes trial exhibits such as statistical charts and photographs. Monitors development of new federal, state, and local ordinances and policies dealing with various blight related and environmental issues. Verifies citations and legal references on prepared legal documents.  Prepares summaries of testimony and depositions. Examines, analyzes, and evaluates information and/or data related to the Vacant Property Registry Ordinance.  Completes financial documents necessary to maintain compliance with the Vacant Property Registry. Creates and maintains a vacant property register for future sharing and dissemination within the City.  Provides assistance to Code Enforcement Investigators in efforts associated with blight removal. Updates data and provides legal assistance to Attorneys for cases prosecuted under the Neighborhood Preservation Act and other blight related prosecution. Maintains and prepares files and monthly reports utilizing various Microsoft applications.

 
OTHER FUNCTIONS:

1. Performs additional functions (essential or otherwise) which may be assigned.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Requires the ability to operate various general office equipment such as a computer, copier, and telephone. Work involves contact with the public under stressful conditions. Must be able to communicate verbally and in writing with management, staff, and the public.

 
TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:  Majority of work is performed in an office environment and involves extensive contact with all City and division employees, supervisors, management and general public.

 

Bachelor's degree with a concentration in Paralegal Service or a closely related field or Legal Assistant and/or Paralegal Certification and three (3) years' experience in conducting research and drafting documents in a legal environment; or any combination of experience and training which enables one to perform the essential job functions.  Certified Legal Assistant or Paralegal preferred.

The City of Memphis is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Office of Talent Management  at talent.management@memphistn.gov.

Division: Public Works

Service Center: PW Neighborhood Improvement