Paralegal Specialist

About This Role

This Paralegal Specialist provides essential legal support to the Office of the City Attorney, assisting five attorneys with research, document drafting, and litigation preparation. The role is critical for efficient governmental operations by managing various legal matters for the City of Rockville.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research using online tools, case law databases, statutes, regulations, and municipal codes
• Prepare research summaries and analytical memoranda for legal opinions and briefings
• Draft initial versions of ordinances, resolutions, legal opinions, correspondence, court pleadings, and contracts for attorney review
• Cite-check documents, ensuring accuracy and proper formatting according to legal standards and city requirements
• Maintain, update, and organize legal research tools, subscriptions, and electronic databases
• Gather, organize, and summarize documents, records, and evidence for litigation and administrative proceedings
• Assist attorneys in trial preparation, including witness lists, exhibits, discovery materials, and case files
• Track matter deadlines, calendaring requirements, and administrative timelines to support attorney workflow
• Coordinate with other City departments to collect information for legal analysis or proceedings
• Support public records request responses by gathering documents and assisting with legal review
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information in accordance with legal and ethical standards

Requirements

• Associate degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, or related field
• 3+ years' experience as a paralegal
• Strong research and writing skills
• Familiarity with municipal law, administrative law, and civil litigation procedures
• Proficiency with legal research platforms (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis) and document management systems
• Ability to draft clear and accurate legal documents
• Strong organizational and case-management skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within a small legal team
• High level of discretion in handling confidential information

Qualifications

• Associate degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, or related field required; bachelor’s degree or a paralegal certificate from an accredited program preferred
• Minimum of three (3) years’ work experience as a paralegal, preferably in the public sector; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Nice to Have

• Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certificate from an accredited program
• Experience as a paralegal in the public sector

Skills

* Required skills