Legal Clerk I – Civil Filing Center

A Legal Clerk I – Civil Filing Center position is available at the City of Philadelphia. The role involves serving as the primary public-facing point of contact within a court filing office, assisting the public with filing procedures, reviewing legal documents, and processing filings in accordance with applicable laws and administrative policies. The position requires strong customer service skills, knowledge of court rules and procedures, and the ability to work effectively in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• 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.
• 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.

Benefits

• Transportation: City employees get unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program.
• Parental Benefits: The City offers its employees 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Wellness program with eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Generous retirement savings options.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness program for student loans.