District Attorney - Domestic Violence Paralegal Intern

Note: This job will be posted through 11:59 PM of the day prior to the end date listed.

Current Washington County Employees: Please apply through the employee portal to be considered for this opportunity.

Job Type:

Variable Hour

Pay Range:

$20.54 - $20.54 Hourly

Department:

District Attorney (DA)

FLSA Exemption Status:

Non-Exempt

About the Opportunity:

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office is seeking a motivated Paralegal Intern to join the Domestic Violence Team for a minimum commitment of up to one year. This role is well-suited for recent graduates of paralegal programs or current paralegal students who thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic work environment.

The Paralegal Intern will support attorneys by performing a wide range of paraprofessional legal tasks. Responsibilities include locating and gathering documents, records, recordings, and other evidence from law enforcement agencies, courts, and community partners; reviewing reports and preparing factual and legal summaries for the assigned deputy district attorney; reviewing audio and video evidence for redaction and courtroom presentation; and maintaining and organizing data in spreadsheets. Additional duties involve supporting preparation for legal proceedings, including trials.

The ideal candidate is a recent graduate or current paralegal student seeking hands-on experience in a busy, high-performing legal office. The position requires a solid understanding of legal procedures, strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to make independent decisions. Work will be performed under the direct supervision of a deputy district attorney, and the incumbent must adhere to strict court deadlines as well as all legal and ethical standards.

Ideal Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:
• Legal terminology
• Knowledge in criminal law
• Methods and procedures of discovery and trial
• Principles, methods, and procedures for conducting legal research
 

Skills to:
• Deal tactfully and discreetly with others on in-person basis
• Write clearly and concisely using correct grammar, syntax, and spelling
• Research statutes and legal references
• Use logic and reasoning to identify alternative solutions or approaches to problems
• Advanced use of standard office equipment, and computer software programs (Proficient in Microsoft Office products, Outlook Calendaring, TEAMS/Zoom, Adobe Pro and experience working with various databases and software programs).
 

Ability to:
• Effectively organize and prioritize work to meet established deadlines
• Communicate information and ideas orally and in writing so that others will understand
• Maintain sensitive and confidential information related to criminal prosecution
• Use standard office equipment, and computer software systems to enter and retrieve information

Spanish bilingual skills are preferred. It is required to possess precise writing skills (including spelling, grammar, and punctuation), fluent speaking skills, and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing in English and Spanish. Upon successfully passing the applicable proficiency assessments in a Spanish, positions that are eligible for the bilingual differential pay will offer in an amount of 5% of the base pay rate, or a flat rate of seventy-five ($75) per pay period, whichever is greater. Pay periods are every two weeks.

To review the complete classification, including the full list of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) associated with this position, use this link:  https://www.washingtoncountyor.gov/hr/job-class/uncl16

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled and attending an institution of higher education in paralegal studies, criminal justice, and/or a related field; OR

• Recently graduated (within a year) from a qualifying paralegal program.

Additional Requirements

• Must pass a background investigation

About the Department/Division:

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office is responsible for upholding public safety and justice by prosecuting criminal cases, supporting victims, and working closely with law enforcement and community partners to ensure fair and efficient administration of justice. The Office operates in a fast paced legal environment and serves a diverse community with professionalism, integrity.

Selection Process:

You can review our standard selection process here.

Our commitment to you:
Washington County is an equal opportunity employer committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on knowledge, skills, and abilities. Our organization embraces innovation, collaboration, and work-life harmony. We promote employee development and offer an award-winning benefits and wellness program as well as an opportunity to serve and support our vibrant community.

Veterans' Preference:
If you are a Veteran and would like to be considered for Veterans' preference for this recruitment, please review the instructions using this link: Veterans' Preference Points.
 
Accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act:
Reasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in the selection process for this recruitment. To obtain confidential assistance please contact Human Resources 503-846-8606, or email: Careers@WashingtonCountyOR.gov at least 48 hours before any step in the recruitment and selection process for which you feel you need accommodation.
 
Status of Your Application:
You will be advised by email of your status at each step in the application process, from initial application to final employment disposition. Please note that Washington County communicates with all candidates via email.

Notice: Washington County is currently undergoing a comprehensive classification and compensation study. The purpose of this project is to create new job descriptions and create new classification and compensation systems. Outcomes of the project will include changes to classification titles, which could impact compensation structures. No one will have their pay rate lowered because of this project. For represented positions, appropriate bargaining processes will be utilized prior to implementation.

Questions?

Recruiter:

Brighton Bohnenkamp

Email Address:

Brighton_Bohnenkamp@washingtoncountyor.gov