Legal Assistant job description

A Legal Assistant is a vital support professional who assists attorneys by managing case files, drafting legal documents, and coordinating client communications, ensuring the efficient operation of a law practice. This role enhances organizational productivity and helps maintain compliance with legal procedures, directly contributing to the firm's success and client satisfaction.

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What is a Legal Assistant?

A Legal Assistant is a trained professional who works under the supervision of attorneys to provide essential administrative and clerical support in a legal setting. They are knowledgeable in legal terminology, procedures, and documentation, playing a key role in the smooth functioning of law offices, corporate legal departments, or government agencies. Legal Assistants help streamline workflows, reduce the burden on lawyers, and ensure that all legal activities adhere to established protocols and deadlines.

What does a Legal Assistant do?

Legal Assistants perform a variety of tasks to support legal teams, including organizing and maintaining case files, conducting legal research, drafting correspondence and documents such as contracts or pleadings, and scheduling appointments or court dates. They also communicate with clients, witnesses, and other parties, manage calendars, and assist in preparing for trials or hearings. Their work ensures that attorneys can focus on strategic legal analysis and representation, improving overall efficiency and accuracy in legal proceedings.

Job Overview

A Legal Assistant provides critical administrative and legal support to attorneys and legal teams in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies. This role requires exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and comprehensive knowledge of legal procedures and documentation. The ideal candidate will be proficient in legal research, case management, and client communication while maintaining strict confidentiality and professionalism.

Legal Assistant responsibilities include:

1. Draft and prepare legal documents, correspondence, and pleadings under attorney supervision 2. Manage case files, including organizing, indexing, and maintaining electronic and physical documentation 3. Coordinate court filings, including e-filing with federal and state court systems 4. Schedule client meetings, depositions, court appearances, and maintain attorney calendars 5. Conduct legal research using Westlaw, LexisNexis, and other legal databases 6. Communicate professionally with clients, court personnel, and opposing counsel 7. Process billing and timekeeping entries using legal practice management software 8. Prepare discovery documents, including interrogatories, requests for production, and subpoenas 9. Manage document production and review processes for litigation cases 10. Maintain confidentiality of all client information and case details
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Must-Have Requirements

1. Associate's degree in Paralegal Studies or Legal Assistant certificate from ABA-approved program 2. Minimum 2 years of experience in a legal support role within US jurisdiction 3. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and legal software (Clio, MyCase, or similar) 4. Comprehensive knowledge of legal terminology, civil procedure, and court rules 5. Experience with e-filing systems (PACER, state e-filing portals) 6. Excellent written and verbal communication skills 7. Strong organizational and time management abilities with attention to detail 8. Understanding of legal ethics and confidentiality requirements 9. Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in fast-paced environment 10. Familiarity with legal billing and timekeeping practices

Preferred Qualifications

1. Bachelor's degree in Legal Studies or related field 2. 3+ years of experience in specific practice area (litigation, corporate, real estate) 3. Notary Public commission 4. Experience with document management systems (NetDocuments, iManage) 5. Knowledge of specific state court procedures and local rules 6. Previous experience in mid-to-large size law firm environment 7. Training in electronic discovery processes and software 8. Bilingual capabilities, particularly Spanish-English 9. Experience with trial preparation and support 10. Professional certification (NALA, NFPA, or state-specific credentials)

Bonus Skills

1. Proficiency in advanced legal research databases beyond basic Westlaw/Lexis 2. Experience with litigation support software (Relativity, Concordance) 3. Technical skills in legal technology implementation and troubleshooting 4. Background in specific high-demand practice areas (IP, healthcare, environmental law) 5. Courtroom experience including trial assistance and exhibit preparation 6. Client development and relationship management experience 7. Advanced document formatting and automation skills (Word styles, templates) 8. Knowledge of legal project management methodologies 9. Experience with alternative legal service providers and outsourcing coordination 10. Understanding of data privacy regulations (GDPR, CCPA) and compliance requirements

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