Paralegal - Wrongful Convictions Unit

Paralegal - Wrongful Convictions Unit

Salary

$47,715.20 - $70,720.00 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50321 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

27-01042

Agency

428 Department of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing - Public Defender

Opening Date

10/12/2026

Closing Date

10/26/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Kurt Swaim; kswaim@spd.state.ia.us

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Description

Do you enjoy helping others and want to make a significant impact in what you do? If yes, look no further!

The Iowa State Public Defender's Office is seeking a highly motivated, skilled, and experienced Paralegal to assist our Wrongful Convictions Unit located in Polk County, Iowa.

Who We Are

The mission of the Office of the State Public Defender is to ensure that all indigent persons in Iowa are provided high quality legal representation in criminal, juvenile, and other eligible proceedings in the most efficient and fiscally responsible manner.

What You'll Do

As a Paralegal in this position, you will:

• Prepares legal documents and correspondence; reviews/proofreads legal briefs; reviews and compiles documents for appendices; completes appendices; completes final briefs; conducts legal research as directed.
• Monitors EDMS (electronic filing system); files legal documents in EDMS; reviews EDMS docket for complete access to the district court record; locates missing documents and exhibits; orders court record; enters case information into case management system; conducts conflict checks; tracks attorney work including monitoring new case assignments and appellate due dates, incoming states briefs, court opinions, and miscellaneous Supreme Court filings; prepares and monitors attorneys monthly case statistics; maintains office calendar.
• Performs other duties such as answering telephone calls, answering routine questions from clients, family members, and attorneys, copying documents, transmitting printing, preparing mail, closing case files; communicates with court reporters, clerks of court, appellate court personnel, and department of corrections personnel.
• Performs fiscal matters including reviewing court reporter claims and other billing invoices for supervisor approval; prepares purchase invoices; prepares items for surplus; delivers, tracks and reports checks received.
• Serves as primary point of contact person for purchasing, project coordination, personnel, and information management system issues; for State Appellate Defenders Office programs and projects.
• Communicate effectively both in writing and verbally, with a diverse population.
• Conduct legal research with books and other printed materials and online using a computer and Westlaw.
• Review files, determine conflicts, and take appropriate action based on file contents.
• Write and edit motions, briefs, and conform to the proper format necessary for appellate requirements.
• Manage administrative duties effectively, including following proper procedures to check out client files and other materials, and return them in a timely manner so they are available to other office staff.
• Have high standards of ethical conduct; respond appropriately to supervision; ability to understand and apply work rules; ability to interact appropriately with all manner of individuals and officials.
• Able to operate office equipment including computers (including using keyboard and mouse), telephones, photocopiers, and fax machines; basic PC skills, including word processing, e-mail, Internet and searching electronic databases.
• Preparing correspondence in Microsoft Word/Google Docs and designing and using Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets spreadsheets for data analysis and tracking.

What We're Seeking

The successful candidate for this fast-paced position is a motivated, organized, and a detail-focused individual. Applicants should have a proven track record of completing tasks on a strict deadline, experience working with diverse populations, and work well in a team environment.

Desired skills and abilities include:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Good computer skills - preference given to those with experience in Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, databases, spreadsheets, and legal case management systems.
• Customer-centric attitude and demeanor.
• Displays high standards of professional and ethical conduct.
• Good people skills - this position requires regular contact with Public Defender clients, clerks, judges, county attorneys and service providers, good people skills are necessary.
• Knowledge of legal principles and legal research methods desired.

What We Offer

When you join the SPD, you become a part of a strong team culture that is committed to serving the community. In addition to providing a respect for work-life balance, we have a competitive total compensation package for all of our full-time employees, including:

• Robust benefits, including excellent health, dental, life and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave accrual.
• On the job training by dedicated, experienced professionals.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
• Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package.
• Retirement Investors Club (Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan).
• Employee Assistance Program for support when you need it most.
• Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, and more)
• Access to an on-site employee fitness center (6200 Park Avenue location only).

For additional information on benefits click here.

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Embark on a rewarding career dedicated to public service and make a difference with us!

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Graduation from an accredited paralegal program;

OR

Two years of full-time work experience as a paralegal or in a similar support capacity under the supervision of a practicing attorney.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely. Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question. Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

• Yes - I understand and agree.
• No

02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

• No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
• Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

03

Have you graduated from an accredited paralegal program?

• Yes
• No

04

How many years do you have of full-time work as a paralegal or a similar support capacity under the supervision of a practicing attorney?

• I do not have any of the identified experience
• Less than two years of the identified experience
• Two years or more of the identified experience

Required Question

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 428 Department of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing - Public Defender Address 6200 Park Avenue; Suite 1

Des Moines, Iowa, 50321

Website https://spd.iowa.gov/