Paralegal

About the Colorado State Public Defender

The Colorado Office of the State Public Defender (OSPD) is a leading agency specializing in indigent criminal defense, operating independently within the Judicial Branch of Colorado State Government. With nearly 1,000 employees distributed over twenty-one Regional Trial Offices, a centralized Appellate Division, and a centralized Administrative Office, OSPD is committed to defending the rights and dignity of individuals accused of crimes who cannot afford legal counsel. The agency fosters a fast-paced, collaborative work environment where motivation and commitment to high standards are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Organize and manage discovery materials, converting electronic files to various formats such as PDF, and assembling trial notebooks with digital bookmarks and indexes for efficient access by defense teams.
• Analyze and summarize discovery materials including videos and witness interviews; order transcripts; highlight important case elements for attorney attention; review case-related records with clients.
• Examine client charges, legal pleadings, and court orders; conduct legal research on statutes, case law, and sentencing; assist attorneys in identifying potential conflicts of interest.
• Conduct additional case-related research including media and news about cases, clients, co-defendants, or witnesses to support legal strategies.
• Regularly update attorneys and defense teams about new developments and additions to case files.
• Draft routine legal documents such as motions and briefs under attorney supervision; proofread, edit, and file pleadings and motions; redact confidential materials as necessary.
• Prepare appellate packets and coordinate with appellate offices to meet filing deadlines; communicate with trial offices regarding additional materials.
• Monitor case timelines and status to ensure filings comply with criminal procedures and laws; keep attorneys and clients appropriately informed.
• Support hearings and trials through jury selection assistance, witness and exhibit tracking, client communications, note-taking, trial materials coordination, and technical support for evidence presentation including audiovisual assistance and PowerPoint creation.
• Manage correspondence with clients, families, and collateral agencies to gather and exchange relevant information within policy guidelines.
• Perform administrative tasks essential to supporting the defense team and clients, processing documents and transactions in line with office policies.
• Ensure all work promotes compliance with laws and supports diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned by the office.

Employment Benefits

• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.
• Vision insurance included with medical plans.
• Dental insurance benefits.
• State-paid life insurance and short-term disability coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care.
• Health Savings Account with employer contributions.
• Generous paid time off including sick leave and 11 paid holidays.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Access to mental health and well-being resources.
• Participation in Colorado Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA).
• Supplemental retirement savings options such as 401(k) and 457 plans.

Additional Information

The Paralegal role is designated for entry-level professionals to assist with criminal defense litigation under the supervision of attorneys. The position requires adherence to ethical standards including the Colorado Rules of Professional Conduct concerning client confidentiality and attorney-client privilege. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic, team-oriented environment focused on the mission of delivering zealous, compassionate defense.

Further details regarding full job description, minimum qualifications, substitutions, conditions of employment, and application processes are available through official state resources.