Paralegal/Investigator

Patton Law Office SC is seeking a Paralegal/Investigator who is passionate about fighting for the underdog in a broken system to join our growing practice. The Paralegal/Investigator will assist attorney(s) by providing clerical, investigative, and research support services including document preparation and review; interviewing clients and witnesses; research, investigations, fact checking, and trial preparation in Criminal, Family, and Civil Rights cases. Although it is preferred, NO EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, OR CERTIFICATES REQUIRED. Training in investigations and paralegal skills will be provided.

We are a mission-driven boutique law firm providing client-centered legal services in Racine and Kenosha. Our practice focuses on a holistic model with the understanding that our clients’ legal affairs affect their lives outside of the courtroom. We work with our people to address the underlying causes and the collateral effects of those legal issues. We also work with the community to dismantle the systems that oppress our clients and advocate for pathways that will allow our clients to succeed. 

Patton Law Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create a flexible workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive. We have an open-door policy with opportunities for growth, mentorship and training to develop yourself into an effective force for good. 

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Serve as part of the defense team, and as such, are bound by the Rules of Professional Conduct including rules regarding the attorney-client privilege and client confidentiality.
• Perform duties and assume responsibility for case assignments under the specific direction, instruction and guidance of an attorney.
• Be organized, detail oriented, and able to work independently and take the initiative. Must utilize strong interpersonal skills to be able to effectively interact with colleagues, clients (who may be incarcerated), clients’ families, and other individuals within the community.
• Review discovery and records, which may include visual depictions of evidence, examining physical evidence and viewing crime scenes; and, maintain and utilize equipment for conducting investigations including, but not limited to, audio recording devices, cameras, magnifying tools, measurement devices, and maps.
• The primary job duties of an investigator include locating, interviewing and coordinating witnesses; locating and obtaining documents and other information; serving subpoenas; providing insight and recommendations to attorneys on defense strategy; writing reports; preparing exhibits; and, testifying at trial. 
• Meets with attorneys, clients, and other professionals to discuss assigned cases or projects.
• Drafts legal documents including routine pleadings and motions, affidavits, and interrogatories; files motions and pleadings according to judicial procedures.
• Researches and analyzes statutes, regulations, legal articles, judicial decisions, and other legal sources; provides written analysis to attorneys.
• Interviews clients and witnesses and prepares summaries of their statements.
• Prepares, organizes, stores, and retrieves case files, which may include evidence, exhibits, depositions, pleadings, exhibits, and other items.
• Assists attorneys with trial preparation, which may include attending trials and hearings.
• Develops and maintains records regarding billable hours spent on specific cases.
• Performs other related duties as assigned. 

Required Skills/Abilities: 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Understanding of legal language and principles, research methods, court pleadings and processes, and other related matters. 
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
• Ability to manage a caseload in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to exercise excellent judgment and discretion, and maintain confidentiality around sensitive issues. 
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior successful experience in a fast-paced office environment, investigations, or related setting.
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Paralegal Studies, Criminal Justice or related field.
• Law enforcement experience a plus
• Wisconsin Notary a plus
• Demonstrated commitment to advocacy for disadvantaged individuals regarding the issues of economic, social and racial justice as well as sexual orientation and gender equality.
• No felony record (due to licensing requirements)
• Sense of humor required (foul mouth preferred). 

We are pro-queer, anti-colonial, anti-racist, pro-vaccine, anti-Blue Book. Special consideration given to BIPOC applicants.

To apply, send your resume and cover letter to [email protected]. For more information about the firm see pattonlawwi.com.

BASE PAY RANGE

$30,000.00 – $50,000/yr (actual compensation will be based on your skill and experience level). Patton Law Office offers a robust benefits package including health, dental, LTD, STD, retirement and on-site yoga classes.

CLOSED POSITIONS

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Patton Law Office SC is seeking an Associate Attorney to join our growing Criminal Law practice who is passionate about fighting for the underdog in a broken system. The Associate will also have the opportunity to practice in the areas of Estate Planning, Family Law and Child Welfare.

We are a mission-driven boutique law firm providing client-centered legal services in Racine and Kenosha. Our practice focuses on a holistic model with the understanding that our clients’ legal affairs affect their lives outside of the courtroom. We work with our people to address the underlying causes and the collateral effects of those legal issues. We also work with the community to dismantle the systems that oppress our clients and advocate for pathways that will allow our clients to succeed. 

Patton Law Office is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to create a flexible workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, and supportive. We have an open door policy with opportunities for growth, mentorship and training to develop yourself into an effective force for good. We offer a competitive salary (base plus bonus with six-figure potential), health and dental insurance, generous paid time off and a flexible work from home policy when you are not in court. A true commitment to work-life balance.

Job Duties:

• Provide legal representation to and advocacy for clients.
• Communicate effectively, including with individuals who lack English proficiency.
• Handle all aspects of representation
• Engage in a robust motions practice involving research, writing, and arguing pretrial motions.
• Conduct plea and other negotiations and mitigation. 
• Locate, work with, and prepare experts in various fields.
• Provide client-driven representation that includes frequent and detailed communication with the client, choosing the most effective medium for the client.
• Work with clients who may be experiencing mental illness, drug addiction, or other challenges. 
• Work closely with, and in some instances lead, a team that includes investigators, mitigation specialists, and paralegals to develop and implement legal strategy and to properly assess and address client needs.

Qualifications:

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Admission to Wisconsin State Bar Association.
• Demonstrated commitment to advocacy for disadvantaged individuals and/or to issues of economic, social, and racial justice.
• Demonstrated analytical, research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Sense of humor required (Foul mouth preferred). 
• Ability to manage a caseload in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to exercise excellent judgment, discretion, and confidentiality around sensitive issues.

We are pro-queer, anti-colonial, anti-racist, pro-vaccine, anti-Blue Book. Sith and other lackeys of the Empire need not apply.

To apply, send your resume, cover letter and a 5-7 page writing sample to [email protected]. If you are less than three years out of law school, please include a law school transcript. Recent UW and Marquette grads welcome.

For more information about the firm see pattonlawwi.com.

$50,000.00/yr – $70,000 base pay plus bonuses paid monthly (Your actual compensation will be based on your skills and experience).