Paralegal | U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit

Paralegal
Location: Washington, DC
Announcement Number: USCA-24-04
Salary: $44,730 - $88,938
Closing Date: July 19, 2024

The Office of the Clerk, U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, is seeking a well-organized, detail-oriented, and reliable individual to serve as a Paralegal.

Duties

The incumbent works closely with the Special Counsel to the Clerk and responds to inquiries from parties regarding cases, researches legal questions, reviews motions, and drafts orders. The incumbent serves as a back-up to the Courtroom Deputy. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit Clerk's Office offers an opportunity for a self-motivated individual with a strong work ethic to launch or continue a career in public service.

Responsibilities

• Reviews motions and other filings, conducts legal research, answers questions related to court policies and practices, prepares memoranda, and drafts and issues orders.
• Prepares letters, notices, and reports; proofreads and cite-checks documents drafted by others.
• Responds to inquiries from pro se litigants, attorneys, and others regarding cases.
• Monitors the Special Counsel's caseload and upcoming deadlines, prioritizes tasks, and provides other administrative support to the Special Counsel.
• Maintains, updates, and tracks paper and electronic files; scans documents.
• Maintains the list of attorneys who have volunteered to be appointed as amici curiae or pro bono counsel and list of current and past appointments.
• Serves as a back-up to the Courtroom Deputy, performing the full range of courtroom duties.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Investigator | Virginia Indigent Defense Commission

Investigator
Location: Alexandria, VA
Job ID: 5014163
Salary: $61,024
Closing Date: May 17, 2024

The Virginia Indigent Defense Commission (VIDC) is now accepting applications for the position of Investigator in the Alexandria Public Defender Office. The office is seeking a self-motivated individual to perform investigative work for public defense cases. The VIDC is dedicated to protecting and defending the rights and dignity of our clients through zealous, compassionate, high-quality legal advocacy. The Investigator reports to the Chief Public Defender of the Alexandria Office and is employed at-will.

Duties:
This position is responsible for conducting interviews of all relevant witnesses and defendants to gain relevant information aiding in the preparation of cases and will appear in court as needed. Additional duties include gathering documents, taking photographs and measurements, serving subpoenas, and any other necessary steps resulting in a thorough investigation as assigned by the attorney. The investigator's role also involves venturing into the field and engaging in face-to-face interactions with individuals to gather vital information. The position is required to have close interaction and build rapport with members of the public defender team and reports to the attorney handling each case. Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, as investigations require.

Crime Analyst II | Fairfax County Police Department

Crime Analyst II
Location: Fairfax, VA
Job Number: 24-00997
Salary: $66,103.86 - $110,173.86
Closing Date: May 10, 2024

Works with the Fairfax County Police Department to provide advanced/specialized crime analysis work to achieve the department’s mission to protect the community by reducing crime. Oversees designated components of countywide statistical and intelligence analysis, as well as the activities of divisional crime analysts in the analysis of specific crime trends and series, under the supervision of the crime analysis program manager. Other duties include:

• Researches and identifies enhancements to the crime analysis function;
• Confers and collaborates with crime analysts at regular meetings, and ensures consistency in the creation of data files and other output documents;
• Conducts needs assessments as necessary to develop training in existing and updated procedures and practices;
• Uses the county's Geographic Information System (GIS) in the analysis of all facets of criminal activity countywide and trains other analysts in the use of the system;
• Acts as a troubleshooter for all matters related to crime analysis;
• Maintains contact with the crime analyst community nationwide by using the Internet and other forums to identify new trends in crime analysis techniques and tools;
• Gathers data and prepares statistical reports related to a variety of departmental activities using Tableau and the Law Enforcement Analytical Data Sharing (I/LEADS) system;
• Serves as backup support during periods of absence within the crime analysis unit;
• Maintains knowledge of both the routine activities at the station and bureau level assignments, and keeps current on any special projects that may be underway;
• Responsible for field training of newly hired crime analysts. 

This advertisement is to fill two vacancies which may be underfilled at the level of Crime Analyst I. 

Illustrative Duties

(The illustrative duties listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list. A complete list of position duties and unique physical requirements can be found in the position job description.)

• Reviews and extracts data from protected law enforcement and correctional records management systems, such as police incidents, arrests, warrants, case management and accidents, mug shots, probation records and jail bookings;
• Reviews and analyzes records and data from commercial and open sources, such as social media, court dockets, offender registries and law enforcement subscription data warehouses;
• Conducts data analysis and open-source research to identify patterns, trends, problems, offenders, and potential victims in support of patrol, investigative strategies, case linkage and successful prosecution;
• Uses data and knowledge of police practices and sociopolitical concerns to identify opportunities for proactive policing and to support crime prevention and reduction strategies;
• Prepares comprehensive tactical, strategic, and administrative crime and intelligence products that are actionable, defensible, and timely;
• Responds to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), Clery Act and other public requests for information in accordance with State law and department policy;
• Engages in regular information sharing within the Police Department as well as with other crime analysis and law enforcement partners, regionally and nationally;
• Stays abreast of shifts and developments in criminal modus operandi, analytical and investigative strategies and techniques and legal decisions and updates related to policing;
• Briefs commanders, supervisors, detectives and patrol units on criminal activity, prolific offenders, and other impacts on quality-of-life in their assigned area or responsibility, both orally and in writing, and participates in planning and evaluating proactive and reactive enforcement and public education efforts;
• Presents data, research, and findings in a professional, effective, and timely fashion to Police Department employees, partners, and the public, both orally and in writing.

FOIA Paralegal | Alexandria Office of the City Attorney

FOIA Paralegal
Location: Alexandria, VA
Job Number: 2024-00394
Salary: $53,121.64 - $69,557.80
Closing Date: May 7, 2024

The Alexandria Office of the City Attorney is seeking a highly qualified paralegal whose work will be integral to the City’s compliance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VFOIA).   The FOIA Paralegal provides support to ensure all record requests are fulfilled in accordance with VFOIA by coordinating with agency staff, communicating with requesters, analyzing data from the FOIA database, and making recommendations for improvements in efficiency and effectiveness.  The position is also responsible for other secretarial and legal tasks.

The Opportunity

• Uses FOIA database to monitor status and completion of VFOIA requests.
• Designs, develops and generates reports from the FOIA database.
• Assists FOIA Officer in developing performance measures and tracking data to report on those measures.
• Responds to questions regarding VFOIA and researches complex inquiries, coordinating with the FOIA Officer to confirm that information complies with City policies as well as VFOIA.
• Confers with the responsible department to ensure that they are aware of the VFOIA request and understand that timeframe for completion.
• Follows up as deadlines approach to verify that responses are provided in accordance with VFOIA.
• Supports the FOIA Officer in the development and delivery of training to City staff as necessary to ensure that all employees who have VFOIA responsibilities have a thorough understanding of the law and its requirements; the City procedures for tracking, billing and responding to VFOIA requests; and how to use the FOIA database.
• Composes correspondence for the FOIA Officer’s review and signature.
• Deposit checks with finance if office receives checks from attorney offices, code violators, and real estate taxpayers.
• Creates case files, maintains and organizes files, updates and keeps records relating to pending proceedings up to date.
• Resolve inconsistencies between The City Attorney’s Office and the Courts of Alexandria such as incorrect court actions and court schedules.
• Performs related work as required.

About the Department

The City Attorney's Office provides legal advice to City Council, Boards and Commissions, the City Manager and City Departments.  We are responsible for drafting ordinances, contracts, deeds, leases, and other legal papers. We represent the City in civil court to defend the City in actions taken against it and to initiate cases to enforce the City's laws and actions.  Our office is also responsible for handling requests for public records, in compliance with FOIA and for serving as an adjudicator for parking ticket disputes.

Resource Specialist | Maryland Department of Juvenile Services

Resource Specialist
Location: Largo, MD
Recruitment #: 24-002596-0001
Salary: $57,095 - $95,449
Closing Date: May 3, 2024

The main purpose of the Resource Specialist is to coordinate and advise in the placement process for youth who are under the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Services. The Resource Specialist works directly with area staff regarding the needs of youth by providing expertise in treatment options, fiscal resources, availability of programs and program development; ensures that the provision of individualized services to youth are appropriate and efficient by identifying and procuring services that meet the needs of the youth in the least restrictive environment consistent with public safety and are fiscally responsible; participates in development of contracts, RFP's and solicitations, program development and program monitoring. This is a highly responsible position with multiple roles requiring contacts with all levels of administration within and outside of the department.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education:   A Bachelor’s degree in the social or behavioral sciences or criminal justice from an accredited four year college or university.

Experience: Two (2) years of experience providing case management services to emotionally or socially maladjusted, delinquent, victimized or exceptional juveniles in a community or residential setting.

Notes:

1. Candidates may substitute possession of an Associate of Arts degree in the social or behavioral sciences or criminal justice from an accredited college or university and two (2) years of experience providing direct services to children in a community or residential setting for the required education.

2. Candidates may substitute possession of a Master’s degree in the social or behavioral sciences or criminal justice from an accredited college or university for one (1) year of the required experience.

3. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a commissioned officer in Social Services classifications or Social Services specialty codes in the Social Science, Psychology and Welfare field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience and education.

Victim Services Specialist II (Probation Counselor II) | Fairfax County Police Department

 

Victim Services Specialist II (Probation Counselor II)
Location: Fairfax, VA
Job Number: 24-01020
Salary: $62,932.27 - $104,886.91
Closing Date: May 3, 2024

Works as part of the Victim Services Division. Delivers essential services and support directly to victims of violent crimes. Key responsibilities include providing crisis counseling, safety planning, and advocacy within a law enforcement framework. This entails offering assistance to victims of domestic and sexual violence, child abuse, robbery, homicide, and other violent offenses. Your duties will involve administering a range of services aimed at addressing emotional, physical, financial, and practical needs, ensuring comprehensive support during difficult times. Additionally, you will facilitate access to the criminal justice system and support agencies, responding to callouts, even on weekends and holidays, to offer immediate crisis intervention and connect victims with follow-up resources. This role extends to providing general victim advocacy and counseling, accompanying victims to court proceedings, and assisting with the filing of victim compensation claims. Join us in making a difference in the lives of those affected by crime.

Illustrative Duties

(The illustrative duties listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list. A complete list of position duties and unique physical requirements can be found in the position description.)

Victims Services

• Provides supportive services to victims and witnesses of crime involved in the criminal justice system including emotional support, financial assistance, counseling, and victim agency referrals;
• Maintains on-going contact/communication with victims and witnesses during investigation and judicial proceedings, and provides notifications of investigative activity or case developments as needed;
• Provides court accompaniment to crime victim and witnesses for all court proceedings in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations, General District and Circuit Courts;
• Reduces delays in bringing cases to court by assisting in determining availability of victims and witnesses;
• Responds to call-outs to crime scenes and other locations to provide immediate crisis intervention and support, refers clients to related supportive services and agencies;
• Operates a county vehicle to provide the effective delivery of services to victims and witnesses including transporting victims and witnesses to court hearings, commonwealth's attorneys meetings and other court related appointments;
• Provides assistance by administering and providing services designed to enhance coordination among agencies operating within the criminal justice system;
• Works with and assists the officers and detectives within their district station assignment or the criminal investigations bureau with the proper victim services and referrals;
• Encourage citizen awareness and participation through public information and education.

Paralegal Specialist | Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division

 

Paralegal Specialist
Location: Washington, DC
Announcement Number: 24-RDH-CAPS-12392516 DE
Salary: $55,924 - $72,703
Closing Date: May 3, 2024

These positions will be centrally managed by the Professional Development Office (PDO) of the Civil Rights Division. The incumbent will perform legal and factual research and other closely related duties in support of attorneys engaged in civil rights cases and matters.

Duties

As the federal agency whose mission is to ensure the fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans, the Department of Justice is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. To build and retain a workforce that reflects the diverse experiences and perspectives of the American people, we welcome applicants from the many communities, identities, races, ethnicities, backgrounds, abilities, religions, and cultures of the United States who share our commitment to public service.

If selected as a Paralegal Specialist GS-0950-7, typical work assignments may vary based upon the needs of the individual sections, their practice areas, and a host of other factors. Typical assignments, however, can include:

• Reviews, processes, and prepares documents covering diverse and complex legal issues or problems, such as carrying out case development and documentation activities as a case progresses.
• Prepares correspondence, memoranda, justification, and other written documentation involved in providing information about the researched aspects of the cases or issues.
• Reviews and analyzes investigative reports to determine if a particular case is supported by sufficient evidence to provide a basis for prosecution.
• Conducts legal research of substantial variety and complexity, such as procurement related matters, employee garnishments, jury duty waivers, investigation of claims, litigation, and conflicts of interest.
• Conducts or assists attorneys in conducting interviews with investigative sources and prospective witnesses.

Crime Analyst | Metropolitan Police Department

Crime Analyst
Location: Washington, DC
Job ID: 25868
Salary: $72,711 - $93,735
Closing Date: April 29, 2024

There is only one city in the country that can say it is the Nation’s Capital – Washington, D.C.  Given that distinction, The Metropolitan Police Department is the premiere law enforcement organization in the city. We receive over 22 million visitors a year, have almost 700,000 residents, and 21,000 private business. The Department consists of more than 4,200 members: approximately 3,550 sworn members and over 650 civilian employees. We are one of the most diverse and highly trained departments in the country. We have the honor of safeguarding and protecting not only our nation’s residents, but also people from all over the world.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) offers an attractive benefits package. The benefits package includes competitive compensation, health insurance, prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, short and long term disability and life insurance, as well a strong retirement benefit and savings options. Employees are also eligible for our employer contributed 401a plan after one year of employment. Additional perks such as discounts on wireless carriers, gym memberships, amusement park tickets and much more! Additional information can be found at: DCHR Benefits

This position is located in the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Homeland Security Bureau, Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), Research and Analytical Services Branch (RASB). 

The Crime Analyst is responsible for analyzing, visualizing, and mapping crime data from MPD and other public safety sources including MPD’s Records Management System (RMS) and OUC’s Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) to support command staff with crime trends awareness, deployment and tactical decision making.  The Crime Analyst also combines quantitative and qualitative research methods to develop strategic reports on themes self-initiated or assigned.

The analyst follows established procedures and produces deliverables in a timely fashion with minimal error; incrementally improves procedures and deliverable design; produces a significant volume of self-initiated work; and builds a trusted partner relationship with command staff.

This Crime Analyst position is covered under the National Association of Government Employees (NAGE) bargaining unit and you may be required to pay an agency fee through direct payroll deductions.

This incumbent will be responsible for the following:

• Develops statistical summary reports, graphs, charts, and maps covering crime trends and patterns within specified time frames and geographic boundaries (e.g. neighborhood, District, PSA, Ward, and Citywide), some of which are updated on a periodic basis (e.g. daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, seasonally, and annually) for officials within the Department.
• Applies advanced mapping techniques to provide research and analysis at any level of geography and depicts observations including change in crime rates and characteristics over time.
• Constructs presentations and dashboards that include computer-aided visualizations from software products such as ESRI ArcGIS Map, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, Tableau, etc. 
• Conducts increasingly complex statistical modeling of police data to develop insights on crime trends, crime projections, and supporting information necessary for effective presentation.
• Recommends design and process improvements for the team’s analytical products and deliverables.
• Provides analysis that assists in the deployment of manpower and the initiation and evaluation of tactical responses to high crime areas.
• Provides analysis that assists in preparing necessary materials and delivers presentations of current crime trends and patterns for command staff meetings. 
• Provides analysis that assists in preparation for community meetings and the promotion of community problem solving. 
• Prepares detailed factual, analytical, and narrative reports which include times, dates, location and other detailed information related to criminal activities and other areas being researched.
• Reviews and analyzes suspect information and criminal history for internal Metropolitan Police Department support units, including but not limited to specialty and investigative units.
• Documents data sources, maintains and organizes detailed records and files of assigned tasks and materials produced. 
• Participates in interagency communications such as meetings, briefings, task forces, and bulletins to share and develop cooperative data or actively support surrounding jurisdictions.
• Pursues developmental opportunities relevant to tactical analysis of geographic locations and crimes that occurred in specific areas. 
• Participates in and may design and conduct developmental cross-training.
• Performs other related duties as required.