Legal Office Assistant I/II - Public Defender's Office

Legal Office Assistant I/II - Public Defenders Office

Salary

$18.73 - $24.03 Hourly

Location

Eureka, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

25-00269

Department

Public Defender

Division

219 - Public Defender

Opening Date

06/30/2026

Closing Date

7/21/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

DEFINITION

LEGAL OFFICE ASSISTANT I/II

Public Defenders Office

The Public Defender Offices provides Mission-Driven Work With Real Impact

You are part of a team that changes outcomes for real people. Work here is meaningful, emotionally impactful, and unlike any private-sector role. Work includes criminal, juvenile (criminal), mental health, and specialty court matters. Secretaries here are valued as essential partners that work with interdisciplinary teams: Attorneys, Social Workers, Investigators and Admin Staff.

Collaborative & supportive team culture - our office is known for humor, empathy, and a high-trust, fast-paced environment.

Independence & Ownership of Work - Staff who want independence thrive in our office.

What Youll Do:

This position is responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Receives and screens visitors and telephone calls, schedules appointments

• Performs general office support activities such as opening & distribution mail, process incoming and outgoing documents, data entry

• Maintains office and case files; closes and purges files according to established procedures

• Prepares correspondence, forms, and specialized documents from drafts, notes, or brief instructions

A typical schedule for this position is Monday - Friday, 8 am to 5 pm with a 1-hour lunch.

Where Youll Do It:

Humboldt County Public Defenders Office

1001 4th Street Eureka, CA 95501

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, provides a variety of routine to difficult legal office support to various County offices, which is often confidential and may include receptionist duties, document processing, typing, word processing, computer entry, recordkeeping and filing; performs related work as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Legal Office Assistant I is the entry level class of this legal office support series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn general and legal office and County procedures. As experience is gained, there is greater independence of action within established guidelines. This class is alternately staffed with Legal Office Assistant II and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience and demonstrating proficiency which meet the qualifications of the higher level class.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

• Reads and processes various legal documents such as court calendars, court orders, booking slips, probation reports, criminal records, petitions, proofs of service, garnishments, arrest warrants and other legal information for maintaining records.
• Verifies, codes, edits, enters and retrieves legal data and prepares reports from an on-line or personal computer system following established formats; may access confidential statewide data files.
• Reviews legal documents, arrest or incident records, probation reports, files and cases to identify inaccurate, inconsistent and unclear codes, data and other information; notifies appropriate staff and may participate in resolving problem situations; checks court and legal documents for proper authorization and obtains missing signatures; refers documents to the proper Superior Court judge; issues marriage licenses, fictitious business name statements and other documents.
• Compiles data from multiple sources to complete and process legal forms, documents and reports in accordance with established procedures.
• Types correspondence, reports, forms and specialized documents related to the functions of the organizational unit to which assigned from drafts, notes, dictated tapes, or brief instructions, using a typewriter or word processor; may compose standard correspondence from brief instructions; may enter and retrieve information from an on-line computer system.
• Proofreads and checks typed and other materials for accuracy, completeness, compliance with departmental policies, and correct English usage, including grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
• Establishes and maintains office and case files; researches and compiles information from such files; closes and purges files according to established procedures.
• Receives and screens visitors and telephone calls and takes messages, often in difficult or emergency circumstances; provides information regarding County or unit activities and functions to clients, the public and other staff which may require the use of tact and discretion or the interpretation of policies, procedures or guidelines; maintains confidentiality of information.
• Operates standard office equipment, including word processors, facsimile equipment and central telephones.
• May perform general office support activities such as opening and distributing mail, processing outgoing mail, receiving and processing fees, fines or other monies, and ordering office supplies.

QUALIFICATIONS

NOTE: The level and scope of the knowledge and skills listed below are related to job duties as defined under Distinguishing Characteristics.

Knowledge of:

• Legal documents, forms and terminology.
• Policies and procedures related to the department to which assigned.
• Business data processing principles and the use of word processing or personal computing equipment.
• Business letter writing and the standard format for typed materials.
• Office practices and procedures, including filing and the operation of standard office equipment.
• Record keeping principles and practices.
• Correct English usage, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
• Business arithmetic, including percentages and decimals, and basic bookkeeping practices.

Skill in:

• Reading and understanding legal and court documents and extracting relevant information.
• Performing detailed legal office support work accurately.
• Composing routine correspondence from brief instructions.
• Operating standard office equipment, including a word processor and computer terminal.
• Using initiative and sound independent judgment within established guidelines.
• Prioritizing work and coordinating several activities.
• Dealing tactfully and effectively with a variety of individuals, some of whom may be hostile or irate and/or from varying ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.
• Organizing and maintaining accurate files and records.
• Making accurate arithmetic calculations.
• Understanding and carrying out oral and written directions.

Other Requirements:

Specified positions may require skill in typing accurately at a rate sufficient to produce final documents and enter information into a computer system.

Specified positions may require possession of a valid California drivers license. Specified positions may require evening or off-shift work, and may require acting as matron.

Specified positions may require being able to pass a detailed background review.

Desirable Education and Experience:

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills outlined above is:

Legal Office Assistant I: One year of general clerical or office assistant experience.

Legal Office Assistant II: In addition to the above, one year of experience which required the use of legal terminology and concepts to provide a variety of office support at a level equivalent to the Countys class of Legal Office Assistant I.

WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca.

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?

• You should allow 30 - 45 minutes to fill out your application.

Can I change my application after submitting it?

• No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

• You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you dont miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your applications progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

• Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.

If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.

OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.

LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.

Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

RETIREMENT

The County of Humboldt participates in the CalPERS, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.

CalPERS Retirement Program:

• Tier I - Prior to 7/5/2012: 2.7% @ 55
• Tier II - Post 7/6/2012: 2% @ 55
• Tier III - Post 1/1/2013: 2% @ 62

Please note that these are the tiers available at the County of Humboldt. Tier determination is made by CalPERS. Please reach out to Personnel if you have questions regarding tier placement.

COMPREHESIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE

Our generous benefits package includes:

• Health Insurance

• Medical: Multiple plan options available through CalPERS

• County covers majority of employee premium and contributes to dependent coverage

• Additional Insurance Coverage

• Dental: Full premium coverage for employees and all dependents

• Vision: Full premium coverage for employees and eligible dependents

• County-Provided Benefits

• Life Insurance

• Longevity Pay

• Educational Reimbursement

• Deferred Compensation

• Employee Assistance Program

• Bus Pass Program

Optional Benefits

Employees may elect to purchase additional coverage including:

• Supplemental Life Insurance with guaranteed issuance period at time of hire
• Flexible Spending Accounts

VACATION

1 - 3 completed years of service = 12 days (192-hour cap)

4 - 10 completed years of service = 15 days (240-hour cap)

11 - 15 completed years of service = 20 days (320-hour cap)

16 - 20 completed years of service = 25 days (400-hour cap)

21+ completed years of service = 30 days (480-hour cap)

HOLIDAYS

Employees earn 15 paid holidays per year (specific dates as defined in their specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), including 2 personal holidays.

SICK LEAVE

Employees earn 12 sick days per year with an unlimited cap on sick day accumulation.

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS

The County is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness certified employer.

INCENTIVE PAY

County employees may be eligible for additional incentive pay, such as on-call pay, shift differential pay, locked facility pay, or annual uniform allowance, as defined in their specific MOU.

Please visit the County of Humboldt Human Resources website at Human Resources | Humboldt County, CA - Official Website for more information on benefits, labor agreements, and job opportunities.

01

This position includes interaction with individuals who are experiencing stress or frustration. Describe your experience handling difficult or emotional interactions while maintaining professionalism. Be specific about the situation, your response, and the result.

02

Describe your experience using Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel. Be specific-include the types of documents you prepare in Word (e.g., formatting, templates), how you use Outlook to manage email and calendars, and the types of tasks you may have performed in Excel.

03

Describe your experience drafting, proofreading, and reviewing complex documents and correspondence for accuracy, completeness, and correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Include the types of documents you prepared, your level of responsibility (e.g., draft, edit, final review), and the methods you used to ensure accuracy under deadlines.

04

This position requires working in a fast-paced, high-demand environment with shifting priorities and strict deadlines. Describe why you are interested in this type of work setting. Include your experience in similar environments and what you found rewarding.

05

Any other coursework, training or experience you would like to add that directly relates to this position.

Required Question

Employer County of Humboldt

Address 825 5th Street, Room 100

Eureka, California, 95501

Phone 707-476-2349