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Paralegal Public Defender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paralegal FT

Muskegon, MI

$25.22 - $32.64/hr

Description of Work The Paralegal-Public Defender performs paralegal tasks related to the operation of the Muskegon County Public Defender's Office as assigned by the Research Attorney-Public ...

Paralegal FT

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$25.22 - $32.64/hr

Public Defender Division: Public Defender Opening Date: 06/04/2026 Closing Date: 6/18/2026 5:00 PM Eastern Description of Work The Paralegal-Public Defender performs paralegal tasks related to the ...

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Paralegal Public Defender information

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$33K

$59.7K

$89K

How much do paralegal public defender jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for paralegal public defender in the United States is $59,731.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $68,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Paralegal Public Defender job?

A Paralegal Public Defender assists public defense attorneys in representing clients who cannot afford legal counsel. They conduct legal research, draft documents, organize case files, and communicate with clients and witnesses. Their work ensures that attorneys are well-prepared for court proceedings. This role requires strong research, organizational, and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Paralegal Public Defender position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paralegal Public Defender, you need a solid understanding of criminal law, legal research, document drafting, and case preparation, typically with a paralegal certificate or degree. Familiarity with legal research databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and court filing systems is also essential. Organization, attention to detail, strong communication, and ability to work under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities enable effective support to public defenders and ensure clients receive thorough, efficient legal representation.

What are some common responsibilities of a Paralegal Public Defender on a day-to-day basis?

Paralegal Public Defenders assist attorneys by researching case law, reviewing and organizing discovery materials, preparing legal documents, and managing case files. They often interact with clients, witnesses, and law enforcement to gather essential information and coordinate meetings. Additionally, they may help attorneys prepare for court by creating exhibits or summarizing evidence. This dynamic role requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

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Paralegal FT

$25.22 - $32.64/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description of Work The Paralegal-Public Defender performs paralegal tasks related to the operation of the Muskegon County Public Defender's Office as assigned by the Research Attorney-Public Defender or Deputy Chief Public Defender and other attorneys of the office; researches legal questions using Westlaw and other resources; prepares legal documents with or without clerical assistance; assists attorneys in the discovery and trial process; and performs related duties as required. Required Minimum Entrance Qualifications Possess a Law Degree from an accredited college or university; OR Possess an Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university in a paralegal or legal assistant program; OR Possess a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in pre-law or criminal justice; OR Possess a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university and two (2) years' experience as a paralegal or legal assistant; OR Possess a high school diploma and five (5) years' experience as a paralegal or legal assistant. Physical Conditions / Work Location PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES An employee in this class performs generally sedentary or light physical work activities requiring the occasional lifting of objects weighing up to thirty-five (35) pounds.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified applicants. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS The Paralegal-Public Defender works in the office of the Muskegon County Public Defender. Work may be carried out throughout the Public Defender's office or out of doors, and travel throughout the County may be required.

Additional Information Click Below for Job Description: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/muskegon/classspecs?keywords=NF544 EVALUATION CONTENT The selected candidate must take a post-offer medical examination (including back screen and complete physical) and drug screening test given by a County appointed physician before the first day of employment. An offer of employment is contingent upon the results of the medical examination and drug screening test. Applicants for County employment may be subject to a post-offer criminal background check, depending on the nature and assignment of the position

When such check is conducted, an offer of employment is contingent upon the results of the criminal background check. Appointees must satisfactorily complete a probationary period before the appointment will be considered permanent. APPLICANT REVIEW PROCEDURE Any applicant is entitled to a review of any determination or action taken by the County regarding the applicant's employment application.

Inquiries should be directed to the County Human Resources Department. PURPOSE The purpose of this recruitment is to establish an eligible list from which to fill present and future vacancies in this classification in the County system. For each opening, the Department Head has her/his choice of the candidates who meet the required minimum entrance qualifications.

This list remains in effect for three months unless exhausted or extended. MUSKEGON COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER MUSKEGON COUNTY HAS ADOPTED A VETERANS PREFERENCE POLICY THAT RECOGNIZES QUALIFYING MILITARY SERVICE