Paralegal

Job Posting Organization:
The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) is a member of the World Bank Group, which is a unique global partnership of five institutions. The World Bank Group was established with a bold vision to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. It is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, helping to solve the world’s greatest development challenges. The organization operates with 189 member countries and has more than 120 offices worldwide, working with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to bring about transformative changes globally. ICSID specifically focuses on international investment dispute settlement, providing an impartial and effective forum for resolving disputes between host governments and foreign investors. More information can be found at www.worldbank.org/icsid.

Job Overview:
The position of Paralegal at ICSID involves supporting legal teams in various capacities. The role requires fluency in English, with a preference for candidates who also speak Spanish or French, the other two official languages of ICSID. The paralegals will be responsible for drafting, formatting, proofreading, and finalizing case-related correspondence, ensuring that all necessary documents are attached. They will prepare drafts of documents for review by legal counsel, manage submissions in ICSID’s document management system, and coordinate parties’ submissions on external file sharing sites. The role also includes tracking case procedural details, maintaining calendars of events, conducting research on assigned issues, preparing budget estimates, and assisting with logistical arrangements for hearings. The paralegals will work closely with legal assistants and may undertake additional duties as assigned by senior officials.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Paralegal position include: drafting, formatting, proofreading, and finalizing case-related correspondence in English, and preferably in Spanish and/or French; preparing drafts of documents for review by the Team Leader and legal counsel; filing submissions and other case-related documents in ICSID’s document management system; coordinating and overseeing parties’ submissions; acknowledging receipt of submissions and reviewing for completeness; tracking and maintaining case procedural details; creating and maintaining calendars of events for each case; coordinating the publication of case materials; conducting research on assigned issues; preparing budget estimates for cases; preparing letters to parties requesting advances on costs; coordinating with the Administration and Finance Team on case escrow accounts; assisting with presentations and materials for conferences; providing formatting, proofreading, editing, and cite-checking assistance; preparing translations of case correspondence; coordinating and reviewing translations of awards and decisions; assisting with logistical arrangements for hearings; and sharing miscellaneous responsibilities with Legal Assistants.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Paralegal position include a Bachelor’s degree, a Paralegal certificate, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates should have a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant paralegal experience. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are essential, with a preference for proficiency in Spanish and/or French. Candidates should possess knowledge of arbitration procedures, sound organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize and deliver assignments promptly. Knowledge of legal processes, procedures, and terminology is necessary, along with the ability to research, analyze, and synthesize legal information. Legal document drafting skills and experience in preparing budget proposals are also required. Proficiency in computer skills, particularly in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is necessary, as well as advanced knowledge of videoconferencing platforms. Candidates should demonstrate tact and discretion, adaptability to shifting work demands, and a sense of responsibility and integrity.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Paralegal position should have a Bachelor’s degree or a Paralegal certificate. An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in legal principles and practices, enabling the candidate to effectively support legal teams in their functions.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 1-2 years of relevant paralegal experience. This experience should ideally include exposure to legal processes, document management, and case tracking systems, as well as familiarity with arbitration procedures. Candidates should have demonstrated their ability to handle multiple assignments and work effectively under pressure.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Paralegal position. Proficiency in Spanish and/or French is preferred, as these are the other official languages of ICSID. Candidates should be able to draft correspondence and edit materials in both languages, utilizing proper grammar and style.

Additional Notes:
The position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that there is no discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The work environment is dynamic and diverse, and the organization values a sense of urgency, thoughtful risk-taking, and empowerment and accountability among its employees.