University System of Maryland Job Class Specification TITLE: LEGAL ASSISTANT JOB CODE: N10LGU FLSA: NONEXEMPT JOB TYPE: SYSTEMWIDE EEO6: H50 JOB FAMILY/SERIES: LGL IPED-SOC: 23-2011

APPROVED BY: Chancellor Donald N. Langenberg EFFECTIVE DATE: 07/01/1996

JOB SUMMARY

Under general supervision, provides technical and administrative
support to a law clinic or to legal counsel which involves researching
the law, investigating facts, and preparing legal documents.

PRIMARY DUTIES

1.  Researches and analyzes law sources such as statutes, legal
    articles, recorded judicial decisions, treatise, constitutions,
    and legal codes.

2.  Investigates facts and law of case to determine causes of action
    and to prepare case accordingly.

3.  Prepares legal documents such as briefs, affidavits, pleadings,
    subpoenas, interrogatories, wills, contracts, and appeals for
    review, approval, and use by attorneys or law students.
    Transcribes tapes of depositions and court hearings.

4.  Files pleadings with court clerk. Delivers or directs delivery of
    subpoenas to witnesses and parties of action.

5.  Receives, screens, and responds to inquiries on the phone or in
    writing. Provides general information about the law clinic. Makes
    appropriate referrals on inquiries requiring specific legal
    advise.

6.  Creates and maintains databases such as client information, case
    history, student grades, and timekeeping logs.

7.  Updates reference materials such as Law Week, Lawyer's Manuals,
    and Clearinghouse Reviews for distribution to attorneys and
    students.

8.  Establishes, monitors, and maintains case files. Documents all
    communications with clients.

9.  Provides general clerical support such as answering phones,
    greeting visitors, typing, scheduling appointments, mailings,
    ordering supplies, processing payments, and making travel
    arrangements.

Note: The intent of this list of primary duties is to provide a
representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities of
this job. Incumbents perform other related duties assigned. Specific
duties and responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION:  High School Diploma or GED.

EXPERIENCE: One year performing legal research and preparing legal
documents for review, approval, and use by an attorney.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Working knowledge of the structure of federal and state legislative
and judicial bodies; the methods and processes of legal decisions and
lawmaking; and legal terminology; and legal writing requirements.
Skill in researching, analyzing, and preparing legal documents. Skill
in using computers and other standard office equipment; in composing a
variety of correspondence; in managing filing systems; in gathering
and summarizing information; in maintaining confidentiality and
handling sensitive matters with discretion and tact; and in
interacting with clients, students, and staff in a courteous and
efficient matter. General knowledge of and skill in the use of word
processing, database, and spreadsheet software to produce documents
and maintain information. Ability to effectively use the Law Library
for law digests, law encyclopedias, statutes, reporter systems, and
administrative regulations. Ability to communicate effectively orally
and in writing. Ability to understand and follow oral and written
instructions.

OTHER: Except for qualifications established by law, additional
related experience and formal education in which one has gained the
knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the
work of the job class may be substituted for the education or
experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 college
credits being equivalent to one year of experience.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT