Job Description

Legal Secretary

Washington, DC

Summary

Perform secretarial duties using legal terminology, procedures, and documents. Prepare legal papers and correspondence, such as summonses, complaints, discovery requests/responses, briefs and subpoenas. Also assist with hearing and trial preparation, legal research, conflicts checks and docket calendaring. Coordinate with outside vendors for court reporters, printing, messengers and overnight delivery.

Education and Experience

• Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) or Bachelor's degree preferred A minimum of three (5) years supporting litigation and trial attorneys required. Previous law firm experience strongly preferred
• Knowledge of administrative procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records.
• Knowledge of court procedures and processes at the local, state and federal levels.
• Strong familiarity with legal terminology.
• Strong familiarity with the electronic court filing process and requirements. Knowledge of docket calendaring systems.
• Possess strong communication skills to interact and communicate effectively and professionally with clients and co leagues in-person, via telephone or video and in writing.
• Proactive and adaptable with a "can-do" mindset.

Skills

• Active Learning- Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem- solving and decision-making.
• Active Listening- Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
• Critical Thinking- Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Writing- Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Coordination- Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
• Service Orientation- Actively looking for ways to help people.
• Social Perceptiveness- Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

Resource Management Skills

• Time Management- Managing one's own time and the time of others.
• Work Setting - Indoor office setting
• Body Positioning - Seated at a desk or an optional standing desk; working on a computer. Occasional movement to interact with supervisors and colleagues.
• Work Attire - Business casual

Primary Job Duties

• Prepare, proofread, and/or process legal documents, such as summonses, subpoenas, complaints, response to complaints, discovery requests/responses, briefs and appellate documents.
• Prepare, proofread and/or process documents in ADR matters with AAA, JAMS and other alternate dispute resolution providers.
• Mail, fax, email or arrange for delivery of legal documents/correspondence to clients, witnesses and court officials.
• In accordance with court (state, federal, appellate, local) rules, e-file pleadings with the Court. Download and circulate to client matter "teams" documents that have been filed or served.
• Coordinate with docketing specialist dates and deadlines for cases.
• Coordinate with attorney(s) and courtroom to set up appearance for remote appearance using the appropriate platform (Zoom, LACourtConnect, CourtCal).
• Coordinate with outside, approved vendors for court reporters for hearings and depositions.
• Forward invoices from outside vendors to the billing department with correct client information for cost recovery.
• Receive and place telephone calls. Schedule and make appointments.
• Scan and circulate correspondence, documents, and other printed matter.
• Organize and maintain documents and case files using the firm's file management system.
• Assist attorneys with administrative tasks such as expense reimbursements and travel arrangements. Draft and type correspondence.
• Complete various forms, including but not limited to, judicial council, ADR, courtroom requests and applications for clients.
• Run conflicts checks for new clients and matters using the firm's conflicts report in TABS.
• Maintain a commitment to preserving the confidentiality of information for the firm and its clients and vendors.

Activities

• Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Time Management - Managing one's own time and the time of others.
• Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Active Listening - Giving fu l attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Tools and Technology

• Technology
• Microsoft 365 Office Suite
• iManage
• Best Authority
• CompuLaw
• TABS
• CCC Macro Pro Adobe Acrobat ShareFile
• ALN Forms Workflow

*This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.

**The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.

Compensation: $90,000.00-$110,000.00, plus bonus and overtime

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