Legal Clerk I – Civil Filing Center at City of… · 1401…

Summary: The City of Philadelphia is a vibrant government organization that values inclusion and innovation. They are seeking a Legal Clerk I to serve as the primary public-facing point of contact within a court filing office, assisting the public with court procedures and managing high volumes of inquiries while ensuring accurate record keeping. Responsibilities: - Serve as the primary point of contact for the public, including self-represented litigants, at the filing counter - Respond to high-volume, in-person inquiries regarding filing procedures, court forms, and general case information - Manage litigant concerns with professionalism, patience, and composure - De-escalate tense situations involving frustrated or confused litigants - Examine documents for procedural compliance (e.g., signatures, required attachments, filing fees) - Accept, reject, or return filings in accordance with court rules, policies, and applicable statutes - Clearly explain court processes, filing requirements, and next steps to individuals without legal representation - Provide standardized forms, instructions, and resource referrals while maintaining neutrality - Accurately enter case information into the court’s case management system - Scan, upload, and maintain electronic and paper records in accordance with recordkeeping standards - Assist in managing lobby flow and waiting times - Prioritize urgent filings (e.g., emergency motions) in accordance with court procedures - Communicate with judges’ chambers, legal staff, and other court divisions to resolve filing or case-related issues - Route filings and inquiries to appropriate departments when necessary - Follow all court rules, administrative orders, and office procedures - Stay updated on changes to filing requirements, forms, and electronic filing systems - Answer telephone inquiries daily - Provide equitable assistance to all court users, including individuals with limited legal knowledge, language barriers, or disabilities - Maintain reference materials at the counter (quick guides, checklists, commonly requested forms) to support consistent public interactions - Maintain order and cleanliness of the public service area, including counters, waiting areas, and form stations - Provide basic guidance on use of public access resources, such as kiosks, computers, or e-filing terminals - Help ensure forms, signage, and instructions reflect current procedures by replacing outdated materials - Assist with office organization tasks, such as maintaining orderly workspaces, shared filing systems, and supply areas - Perform other related duties as assigned to support the overall function of the office Required Qualifications: - High school diploma or equivalent and one to two years of progressively responsible clerical experience processing legal instruments and documents - Equivalent combinations of training and experience providing the characteristics required to perform the essential functions of the class may substitute for those listed - Satisfactory clearance of a criminal background investigation - Ability to perform the essential functions of a position in this class Required Skills: Legal Document Processing, Court Filing Procedures, Court Rules Compliance, Records Management, Case Management Systems, Electronic Filing Systems, Legal Terminology, Conflict De-escalation Benefits: Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program. Employees can ride on SEPTA buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for their daily commute and more., Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave., We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents., Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan, Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, Generous retirement savings options are available, Pay off your student loans faster - As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Join the ranks of hundreds of employees who have already benefited from this program and achieved student loan forgiveness., Unlock Tuition Discounts and Scholarships - The City of Philadelphia has forged partnerships with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that our employees have access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships. Experience savings of 10% to 40% on your educational expenses, extending not only to City employees but in some cases, spouse and dependents too!