Paralegal - Child Support Establishment/Modification Unit

Overview

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, under Prosecutor Ryan Mears, is working to strengthen fairness and equity in the criminal justice system. Its Child Support Division helps encourage non-custodial parents to meet their financial responsibilities for the benefit of their children. Services in this division include paternity establishment, locating non-custodial parents, and handling child support order modification and enforcement. The office does not advocate for either side in a child support matter; instead, it aims to reach outcomes that are fair and just.

The Establishment/Modification Paralegal will support both custodial and non-custodial parents in setting up child support and medical support orders, as well as in handling case changes, while helping the office maintain a balanced and equitable process. The office is looking for people committed to public service, public safety, and fair treatment for everyone who interacts with the child support system.

Application Instructions

Applicants must send a resume and cover letter by email to mcpolegal@indy.gov.

Important Hiring Note

All candidates will be required to complete a math test during the hiring process, and passing that test in the interview stage is necessary to be considered for the role.

Responsibilities

• Present a polished, professional demeanor and appearance, while working cooperatively with paralegals, deputy prosecutors, administrative staff, court personnel, and members of the public.
• Open, review, and track cases to determine the next appropriate steps for establishment or modification.
• Interview parties to collect the information needed to move a case forward.
• Work with DNA Diagnostic Center (DDC) to arrange testing, ensure parties are scheduled, and confirm genetic test results are submitted to the court.
• Use and maintain records in the statewide child support enforcement tracking system.
• Respond to emails and phone calls promptly.
• Prepare reports as required.
• Handle local and Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) cases for establishment and modification follow-up.
• Research, update, and certify arrears orders and balances using internal systems and case documentation.
• Prepare pay history details for use by the office, the court, other agencies, or the public.
• Create accounts and adjust support orders in ISETS.
• Keep an updated spreadsheet of daily case activity.
• Complete child support worksheet training within the first six months of employment, including learning to calculate support under the Indiana Child Support Guidelines.
• Prepare for court sessions, attend when needed, and complete post-court follow-up on cases.
• Take part in planning and reviewing unit goals when needed, while helping improve day-to-day operations through growing knowledge of procedures.
• Ensure all work follows applicable federal and state laws, regulations, and guidelines, including IRS Publication 1075.
• Follow all policies and procedures in the Marion County Prosecutor Office Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual.
• Maintain punctuality and comply with attendance expectations.
• Show willingness to learn new processes and responsibilities.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including ongoing training and retraining on unit tasks when appropriate.

Qualifications

Candidates should have strong verbal and written communication skills, be comfortable interacting with the public, and maintain a professional public image. The role requires the ability to work effectively with a diverse group of people, manage time well, prioritize tasks, and work quickly and accurately under pressure. Strong organizational ability, initiative, independence, dependability, and responsibility are also important. An excellent attendance record is expected.

A college degree is preferred, while a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Leadership experience in current or past roles and the ability to build effective working relationships with peers are desired. Prior experience in child support is considered an advantage.

The applicant must be a resident of Marion County at the time of hire or be willing to relocate there within six months of accepting the position.

Equal Opportunity

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees. Hiring is based on merit, and candidates from diverse backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. Employment decisions are made without discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or veteran status.

Benefits

Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical insurance, leave benefits, paid holidays, and an annuity savings account through the Public Employees Retirement Fund (PERF).