The City of Philadelphia is seeking a Legal Clerk I to serve as the primary public-facing point of contact in a court filing office. The role requires strong customer service skills, ability to manage high-volume inquiries, and knowledge of court rules and procedures.
Requirements
- Serve as the primary point of contact for the public, including self-represented litigants, at the filing counter.
- Respond to high-volume, in-person inquiries regarding filing procedures, court forms, and general case information.
- Manage litigant concerns with professionalism, patience, and composure.
- De-escalate tense situations involving frustrated or confused litigants.
- Examine documents for procedural compliance (e.g., signatures, required attachments, filing fees).
- Accept, reject, or return filings in accordance with court rules, policies, and applicable statutes.
- Clearly explain court processes, filing requirements, and next steps to individuals without legal representation.
- Provide standardized forms, instructions, and resource referrals while maintaining neutrality.
- Accurately enter case information into the court's case management system.
- Scan, upload, and maintain electronic and paper records in accordance with recordkeeping standards.
- Assist in managing lobby flow and waiting times.
- Prioritize urgent filings (e.g., emergency motions) in accordance with court procedures.
- Communicate with judges' chambers, legal staff, and other court divisions to resolve filing or case-related issues.
- Route filings and inquiries to appropriate departments when necessary.
- Follow all court rules, administrative orders, and office procedures.
- Stay updated on changes to filing requirements, forms, and electronic filing systems.
- Answer telephone inquiries daily.
- Provide equitable assistance to all court users, including individuals with limited legal knowledge, language barriers, or disabilities.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
- Generous retirement savings options are available.
- Unlimited FREE public transportation through SEPTA's Key Advantage program.
- 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
- Ability to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
- Tuition discounts and scholarships at esteemed colleges and universities.
