Litigation Legal Assistant

Job Title: Litigation Legal Assistant

Job Summary:

A Litigation Legal Assistant provides administrative support to attorneys in preparing for trials, hearings, and closings. They are responsible for managing case files, conducting legal research, drafting documents, and coordinating with clients and witnesses. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Case Management:

   • Organize and maintain case files, including electronic files.
   • Calendar and track important deadlines.
   • Coordinate and schedule court dates, hearings, and depositions.
   • Prepare and manage discovery documents and responses.

2. Legal Research and Writing:

   • Conduct legal research using online databases and law libraries.
   • Summarize and analyze legal documents and case law.
   • Draft pleadings, motions, subpoenas, and other legal documents.
   • Prepare case summaries and chronologies.

3. Client and Witness Coordination:

   • Communicate with clients to gather information and update them on case status.
   • Interview clients and witnesses to obtain statements and other evidence.
   • Coordinate and prepare witnesses for depositions and trials.

4. Document Preparation and Management:

   • Assist in the preparation of trial and hearing materials, including exhibits and binders.
   • File documents with courts electronically and in person.
   • Summarize depositions, interrogatories, and testimony.
   • Organize and maintain physical and electronic discovery materials.

5. Trial Preparation:

   • Assist attorneys in trial preparation, including witness lists, exhibit lists, and trial binders.
   • Coordinate logistics for trials and hearings, including arranging for courtroom technology.
   • Attend trials and hearings to provide assistance as needed.

Specific Duties by Area of Law:

Civil Litigation:

• Manage large volumes of documents and data related to complex litigation.
• Assist in preparing and responding to discovery requests.
• Coordinate with opposing counsel and court personnel.

Criminal Law:

• Assist in the investigation of criminal cases, including reviewing evidence and police reports.
• Prepare pre-trial motions and assist with trial preparations.
• Liaise with law enforcement agencies and expert witnesses.

Family Law:

• Prepare and organize documents for divorce, custody, and support cases.
• Assist in mediation and settlement conferences.
• Draft financial statements and other court-required forms.

Personal Injury Law:

• Gather and review medical records, accident reports, and other relevant documents.
• Coordinate medical examinations and depositions of medical experts.
• Calculate damages and prepare settlement demands.

Qualifications:.

• Minimum of 2+ years of experience as a litigation Legal Assistant
• Proficiency in legal research tools (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis).
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and legal case management software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Working Conditions:

• Professional law firm setting, primarily in-office role with some remote flexibility after training
• Full-time position with the possibility of overtime during trial preparation.
• Work may be stressful due to tight deadlines and high-stakes cases.

Compensation:

• Salary is commensurate with experience 60-70K
• Benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, bonus, and professional development opportunities.