WebsiteJamaica Customs Agency
Country Above Self
The Jamaica Customs (An Executive Agency) invites applications from suitably qualified individuals to fill the position of:
Paralegal Officer (Level 4)
Job Purpose
The incumbent is responsible to organize many office affairs, including organizing dates for hearings, to research the laws, investigate the facts and prepare documents to assist the Legal Unit in its operations.
Key Responsibilities
Technical/Professional Responsibilities
Researches and analyses law sources such as Statues Laws of Jamaica, Customs Act and regulation, Revenue Laws, Legal Articles, Treaties, Constitutions, Tariff and Legal codes to prepare legal documents such as Briefs, Pleadings, Appeals, Contracts, Initial and Amended Articles of Incorporations etc. for review and use of the Legal team
Prepares affidavits of documents.
Investigates facts and law of case to determine causes of action and to prepare care.
Files pleadings with the Clerk of Courts.
Assists with the records management of all document types and case file management for the unit.
Assists with the handling of matters related to:
Human Resource issues with Disciplinary process, Industrial
Disputes Tribunal (IDT);
Revenue Appeals Division (RAD) matters;
Supreme Court;
Proceeds of Crime (POCA);
Criminal issues in respect of breaches of the Customs Laws in the parish courts.
Legislative Reviews.
Drafts responses to requests for information.
Attends court to assist team members when required, as well as adjourn matters or hold where necessary and take initiative where appropriate in court proceedings.
Conducts legal research to assist team members from time to time.
Sits in on pre-trial conferences with the possibility to conduct follow-up
Provides information to facilitate the preparation of legal opinions.
Management/Administrative Responsibilities
Ensures that legal documents are filed within the specified/required time frames.
Assists with the performance of administrative duties in relation to records management for meetings.
Maintains an accurate diary of matters within the Unit.
Performs quality assurance and editorial checks with legal forms and documents.
Assess files and request where required better and further particulars, including statements.
Reviews statements and requests amendments if necessary.
Customer Service Responsibilities
Maintains customer service principles, standards and measurements.
Identifies and incorporates the interests and needs of customers in business processes.
Ensures communication of date/time arrangements for hearings and court procedures are timely executed.
Other Responsibilities
Performs all other duties and functions as may be required from time to time.
Required Skills/Competencies
Core
Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
Strong analytical, research and problem solving skills
Strong customer relations and interpersonal skills
Excellent planning, time management and organizing skills
Excellent judgment and decision-making skills.
Ability to effectively function in a team environment.
Ability to work quickly and under pressure to meet deadlines.
High levels of integrity, professionalism, ethics, and ability to keep confidentiality.
Technical
Advanced IT skills in relation to the Microsoft Office Suite Applications
Knowledge of Customs Act, Regulations and related legislation.
Appreciation of legal strategies and rules of statutory interpretation.
Working knowledge of Customs related legislation and regulations, particularly the Tax Laws and Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) legislation.
Sound knowledge of business laws, commercial practices, and international trade practices and policies.
Good knowledge of litigation practices and procedures.
Demonstrated knowledge of investigative policies and methods.
Minimum Required Education and Experience
First degree in history, the social sciences or law.
Certificate in Legal Studies
At least three (3) year’ experience as a paralegal.
Training in records management and exposure to office management.
Paralegal training with certification.
Special Conditions Associated with the Job
Work will be conducted in an office outfitted with standard office equipment and specialized software.
The environment is fast paced with on-going interactions with critical stakeholders and meeting tight deadlines which will result in high degrees of pressure, on occasions.
Will be required to attend court proceedings regularly, liaise with court administrators/clerks.
Fair degree of travelling required (<70%) on a regular basis in normal execution of duties island wide, including travelling locally to attend conferences, seminars, and meetings.
