During a recent Kaufman County Commissioners Court workshop, discussions centered on the growing need for additional staffing in the county's legal department, particularly in the intake unit. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by the department due to an increasing volume of cases and the necessity for more personnel to manage the workload effectively.

The legal department's intake unit is currently experiencing significant bottlenecks, with an estimated backlog of 150 to 200 cases awaiting entry. The department's leadership emphasized that the existing staff is working overtime to keep up with the demand, but the current staffing levels are insufficient. As a result, they are requesting the addition of two new intake positions to alleviate the pressure and improve efficiency.

The conversation also touched on the qualifications and roles of paralegals within the department. It was noted that some paralegals hold state certifications, which allows them to take on more responsibilities, similar to those of nurse practitioners in the medical field. However, the ability for paralegals to practice law under an attorney remains a topic of discussion, with ongoing considerations about their training and certification processes.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the organizational structure of the department, distinguishing between supervisory roles and executive positions. Supervisors are responsible for managing teams, while executive secretaries support higher-level officials. The need for clear leadership and training for paralegals was emphasized, especially as the department manages cases across multiple courts.

As the county continues to grow, the legal department's ability to adapt and respond to increasing demands will be crucial. The request for additional staffing will be reviewed by the commissioners, who are expected to weigh the necessity of these positions against budgetary constraints. The outcomes of these discussions will directly impact the efficiency of legal services provided to the community, ensuring that residents receive timely and effective support in their legal matters.