CPS Legal Secretary III

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected: children, elderly, and people with disabilities, from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS is a qualifying organization for the Service Loan Forgiveness Program. DFPS also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, a lifetime monthly retirement annuity as well as Texasaver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. As an additional benefit you will receive 12 days of paid annual leave, 12 sick days, and the potential to earn up to four days of administrative leave each year. Annual paid leave accrual increases as tenure increases.

The Legal Secretary III performs legal secretarial and general administrative work for the attorneys who represent the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. The position provides skilled secretarial support for attorneys who litigate Child Protective Services cases. The position interacts routinely with court coordinators, district and county clerks, DFPS staff, and the general public.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

• Drafts, prepares, and reviews pleadings, motions, petitions, exhibits, and other legal documents for Child Protective Services.
• Reviews and prepares legal correspondence, sets up and maintains legal files, and answers telephone inquiries.
• Files pleadings and orders with the District/County clerk; copies, faxes, e-mails, and routes various legal documents to all parties.
• Develops and maintains professional working relationship with agency staff and the legal community.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

• Knowledge of legal practice and terminology.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
• Ability to prepare legal correspondence and other legal documents.
• Proficient in the use of Word, Microsoft Outlook, as well as the ability to learn the use of other computer programs.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Notary public certification is preferred.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from high school or equivalent. Previous secretarial experience in the legal field preferred.