Position: Appellate Unit Secretary/Paralegal
Starting Salary: $48,000*
Deadline: June 8, 2026
Instructions: Applicants interested in the above position, please submit a cover letter and resume to [email protected].
The Franklin County Public Defender’s Office provides zealous, high-quality legal representation to individuals who cannot afford counsel. We believe that justice is a right, not a privilege. We are seeking a highly motivated and organized Appellate Secretary/Paralegal to join our Appellate Unit. This position provides essential, high-level administrative and legal support to appellate attorneys, playing a critical role in the preparation and filing of appeals in our courts.
Responsibilities:
· Document preparation: Format, proofread, and prepare complex appellate briefs, motions, petitions, and legal correspondence, ensuring compliance with strict court rules (including Table of Authorities/Contents).
· Electronic Filing: File legal documents electronically (e-filing) in the 10th District Court of Appeals and the Ohio Supreme Court.
· Record Preparation: Compile, organize, and index the record on appeal.
· Case Management: Maintain, update, and track case management databases, ensuring all deadlines are accurately scheduled.
· Communication: Serve as a point of contact between staff attorneys, appellate courts, and clients both incarcerated in correctional facilities and those in the community.
· File Maintenance: Organize and maintain both physical and electronic case files from assignment to closure.
· Library: Maintain the Office’s Law Library
· Perform all other duties assigned, delegated or required by the assistant public defenders or unit chief.
Experience and Skills:
· Paralegal certificate preferred; will consider other relevant experience
· A demonstrated capacity to work creatively and collaboratively on legal issues confronting our indigent clients
· Commitment to social justice and defending the rights of indigent individuals charged with or convicted of crimes
· Exceptional attention to detail and ability to proofread for accuracy
· Ability to work independently and manage multiple competing deadlines
· Strong, compassionate communication skills for working with client populations as well as with other office staff, court personnel and prosecutors.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $48,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- Administrative Assistants & Receptionists: 1 year (Preferred)
- Legal research: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
