Trial Assistant

JOB PURPOSE:  The purpose of the Trial Assistant position is to assist the Team by providing administrative support for Assistant District Attorneys.  Receives and records new cases from Police Departments in the appropriate manner.   Processes and tracks assigned caseloads. Maintains accurate data entry and file records until the cases conclusion. Performs all other related work as required.  This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position located at the Cumberland County Courthouse in Portland, Maine. The salary range for this position starts at $21.61 per hour.  Higher starting pay available, contingent upon qualifications and experience.  Please note, applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

QUALIFICATIONS:  High School diploma required. Minimum of one to two years of related work experience, preferably in a law environment. Must be a team player with a positive attitude. 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.  Must be able to handle the more difficult customer service requests. Ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures and be compassionate with people of all degrees of life. Must work with and handle confidential information following department procedures. Proficiency of computer operations to include report generation, internet and email; word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications. Skill with Justware preferred. Associate’s Degree in legal administration or business preferred. Notary Public helpful. 

MAJOR 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.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies.
• Handles work in a confidential and sensitive manner when dealing with defendants, victims, and cases.
• Handles all incoming mail in a timely and sensitive manner. 
• Fulfills job function by participating as an active member of training; participating on county task forces and performing other responsibilities as assigned.  Keeps abreast of the latest technology, procedures, methods, systems, and materials employed in the industry. Acts as backup for co-workers and receptionists as deemed necessary.
• Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation dictates.

Cumberland County offers an excellent and comprehensive benefits package and is proud of its talented and dedicated workforce.  Come join our team and culture of engaged employees.  Our strong management team is dedicated to providing employees with inspiring leadership, a positive and friendly workplace, support, encouragement and the necessary tools for success.  We offer tuition reimbursement, wellness program, and professional development and training opportunities.

This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position located at the Cumberland County Courthouse in Portland, Maine. The salary range for this position starts at $21.61 per hour.  Higher starting pay available, contingent upon qualifications and experience.

Position will remain open until filled.

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.