Paralegal 1/2 (02-1371)

This position is open to Alaska Residents only. Please check our

residency definition

to determine if you qualify.

Effective July 1, 2026 the wage for this position increased by 3%. The wage listed in this job posting reflects the increase.

What You Will Be Doing

This position works in the Public Defender Agency’s Anchorage office and is responsible for providing support to clients in the Agency’s Municipal Defense sections and litigation support for the leadehip team. The position also serves as the lead for two law office assistants, providing them training and guidance. This role invloves working directly with clients in the office, in correctional facilities, and on the phone; coordinating with social service providers in the community; and communicating regularly and effectively with attorneys and Agency administrators.

Our Organization, Mission, and Culture

The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to counsel in many types of cases and the Public Defender Agency is appointed by the Court to represent people who are unable to afford counsel on their own.    Paralegals are an integral part of providing that representation and protecting our clients' rights. Paralegals work closely with attorneys and other Agency staff to acquire complete records and transcripts, provide high-level assistance on litigation preparation, and communicate with clients frequently in writing and over the phone. This position is essential to the success of this section by providing advanced administrative and legal support.

The Benefits of Joining Our Team

Support staff at the Public Defender Agency have the opportunity to learn about the legal system and hone their administrative skills to further their career development in the legal field.  Most importantly, they get to do this while working as a team to provide meaningful contributions to Alaska, as the work we do impacts people’s lives and protects the constitutional rights of all Alaskans.  This important work helps improve case outcomes for individuals charged with crimes, helps re-unify families, and provides the foundation for successful re-entry into communities. Many paralegals use the skills and experience they gain to transition to investigative and administrative management positions within the Agency, the State of Alaska, or the private sector.

Your first 12 months in the Agency are probationary and considered a training period, with formal and on-the-job training with your supervisor and your colleagues.

The Working Environment You Can Expect

The office is located in downtown Anchorage near the Nesbett and Boney courthouses. The hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM with an hour lunch at noon.  Downtown parking is provided by the Agency near the office.

Requires frequent driving to correctional facilities to meet with clients or coordinate delivery of trial clothing.