JOB DESCRIPTION
The Tenth District is seeking qualified attorneys to serve as per diem conciliation court referees. Conciliation court, also known as small claim court, handles claims for money or property that do not exceed $20,000, and consumer credit claims not exceeding $4,000.
Conciliation calendars are held daily in half-day sessions, with one morning court session and one afternoon court session. All conciliation calendars are conducted remotely via Zoom.
Per diem referees will be compensated on a contractual basis at the rate of $75.00 per half day court session. These are contractor position and are not eligible for Minnesota Judicial Branch employee benefits.
This position serves at the pleasure of the Chief Judge or their designee and is governed by Minnesota Statute 491A.03.
EXAMPLES OF JOB DUTIES
- Preside over general conciliation calendars and debt collection calendars ranging from 12 to 50 cases per half day session. Review court calendars, case filings, and related materials in advance of scheduled proceedings.
- Hear and evaluate testimony, allegations, and evidence presented by parties, witnesses, and technical experts. Determine whether claims are supported by the facts and applicable law, rule on the admissibility of evidence, and oversee the orderly presentation of testimony and proceedings.
- Prepare orders and related documentation in compliance with Minnesota Judicial Branch standards and perform legal research as necessary to support judicial decision-making. Prioritize assignments and promptly dispose of pending conciliation court matters.
- Exercise substantial discretion and independent judgment carrying out duties in accordance with applicable state statutes, court rules, local practices, and Minnesota Statute § 491A.03, Subdivision 1.
- Maintain order, decorum, and professionalism during all proceedings. Ensure all parties are afforded the opportunity to be heard in accordance with the law while maintaining timely and quality calendar management, treat all parties with courtesy and respect, and enforce prohibitions on broadcasting, recording, televising, or photographing court proceedings.
Maintain compliance with the Minnesota Code of Judicial Conduct as adopted by the Minnesota Supreme Court.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Must reside in Minnesota.
- Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Minnesota.
- Must have at least five years of experience as a practicing attorney.
- Must be in good standing with Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility board and have no disciplinary actions within the past five years
- Must pass criminal background check
May not have a client base that would create a frequent conflict in the type of cases commonly heard in the conciliation court (e.g. credit card debt, landlord-tenant).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Civil litigation experience.
Experience attending or facilitating remote hearings.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Quick to learn and effectively use technology and electronic devices.
- Perform well under pressure with demonstrated time management and problem-solving efficiencies.
- Experienced and comfortable working with technology and electronic records systems.
Detail-oriented with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster teamwork and cooperation.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:
- Must have access to a computer and webcam with reliable, high-speed internet allowing for video and document sharing.
- Must serve at least once every three months.
- Must not cancel a scheduled assignment more than twice in a twelve-month period.
- Must be able to hear cases from all counties in the Tenth District.
Must produce orders to Court Administration within 48 hours of the hearing.
This posting will be accepting applications until the roles are filled.
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