Legal Specialist - Paralegal

POSITION DETAILS

Assists in processing and tracking legal matters of various kinds.

Support the Office of Legal Counsel by reviewing and evaluating Freedom of Information Law ("FOIL") requests, locating responsive records, and assigning requests to appropriate departments for production.

Track FOIL response deadlines and ensure timely compliance with all requirements. Respond to routine subpoenas and record requests.

Assist Legal Counsel and the Labor Designee in arbitration, grievance, litigation, and hearing preparation.

Assist by processing and tracking legal matters, including litigation, subpoenas, and record requests. Assist by processing contracts, affiliation agreements, employee and student disciplinary actions, human rights complaints, and other matters.

Analyze records to identify and redact confidential or exempt information. Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Assist with investigations, including contacting witnesses, arranging interviews, and drafting statements. Analyze records and disciplinary files.

Maintain the security of highly confidential information per College and University policies.

Research and compile case data regarding relevant laws, regulations, and precedents related to employment law, grievance procedures, CUNY policies and contracts, and arbitration; analyze legal data pertinent to cases; and, prepare summaries.

Assist in the development, refinement, and daily operations of case and file management systems. Assist with various daily administrative duties in support of the office/team as well as providing back up to the Office Administrative Staff (phone, file management, intake, etc.).

Develops and delivers internal training programs on employment law, harassment prevention, ethical standards, and workplace policies.

Assist in tracking ethics compliance requirements, prepare reports, and maintain accurate records. Draft and prepare letters, settlement agreements, and responses to grievances and disciplinary proceedings.

Assist with performance evaluation instruments and professional development assessments. Provide support for college restructuring, reclassification, and non-reappointment processes. Conduct initial intake screening.

Draft interview and report summaries.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree and four years' related experience required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Four years' related experience in a law firm or in-house legal department as an officially designated paralegal.
• Strong organizational skills
• Experience with case management systems and legal document preparation.
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Excellent verbal communications skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Knowledge of FOIL laws and regulations
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism and handling sensitive information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, and other relevant software platforms.
• Knowledge of Lexis Nexis Uni, or Westlaw
• Experience with legal research and document management
• Spanish speaking a plus