THE FEDERAL PUBLIC DEFENDER, Western District of North Carolina is accepting applications for a Paralegal in the Capital Habeas Unit (“CHU”) for the Fourth Circuit. This regional CHU represents indigent prisoners under state and federal sentences of death imposed within the Fourth Circuit’s appellate jurisdiction. We have an active caseload in the United States District Court for South Carolina, the three United States District Courts for North Carolina, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court of the United States.
Duties: The paralegal will assist in the full scope of our work, which includes all stages of federal habeas corpus proceedings, as well as stay litigation, method of execution challenges, and executive clemency. Core duties include: gathering, reviewing, summarizing, and indexing the numerous electronic and paper documents comprising the investigative files and court records relevant for our work; working with the Computer Systems Administrators to create and maintain electronic databases of those case records; maintaining internal dockets and calendars; assisting with the preparation and submission of case-related forms, expert and vendor contracts, and pleadings; and facilitating client contact and correspondence. The paralegal will work collaboratively with investigators and under the supervision of an attorney. The paralegal will occasionally assist with investigative duties, including witness interviews. We anticipate all members of a case team will contribute to discussions of case strategy. The position might require frequent travel and work outside of business hours, including weekends and holidays.
Requirements: The paralegal will help devise and implement file management practices for the CHU. This position demands strong organizational skills, problem-solving, and attention to detail. Knowledge of federal court rules, practices, and case docketing is critical. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Excel, Adobe Acrobat and case-management software is required. Previous experience with capital cases or other complex and document-intensive litigation is preferred. An affinity for teamwork is essential.
How to Apply. Qualified persons may apply by forwarding a letter of interest and detailed résumé. Send completed application in .pdf format to: [email protected]. No phone calls, please.
This organization provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities on a case-by-case basis. Please submit any request for accommodation as a .pdf document to [email protected].
Position announced May 31, 2022. Applications received by July 1, 2022, will receive priority consideration. Position open until filled and is subject to available funding. More than one position might be filled from this announcement.
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