Legal Secretary I

Role Overview

• Entry level position that provides secretarial and administrative support to professional legal staff
• Prepares and files legal documents, motions, pleadings and correspondence of a legal nature as directed
• Maintains attorneys calendar, sets court dates and appearances, and schedules meetings with witnesses and other involved parties
• Maintains department records
• May be required to support up to as many as three litigation attorneys
• Works closely with Attorney to draft letters and legal documents
• Prepare and assemble documents, including necessary transmittal forms and envelopes, in proper format
• Complete typing and word processing assignments and documents of legal nature, including correspondence, pleadings, subpoenas, and related documents
• Produces quality written communication, corrects and edits documents to ensure final copy conveys proper format and is correct in detail
• Prepares Answers, Cross-Complaints, discovery and all pleadings as directed by the handling attorney
• Maintains transcripts, documents and evidence
• Handles files with minimal exposure and complexity; typical soft-tissue injury claims with no risk
• Maintains record of claims and legal documents and case activity
• Works with attorney to assist in work flow processes
• Coordinates legal services such as court reporting, copying and delivery agencies
• Assures all work is prepared and timely submitted without delay
• Has complete understanding of court deadlines, Rules of Court, requirements for processing documents and all office and court processes
• Handles routine correspondence and inquires with attorneys, clients, adjusters, courts, etc. through written or telephone communications skills
• Communicates with claims, opposing counsel and clients regarding legal file
• Carries out day to day activities in a logical and effective manner and completes work assignments promptly
• Schedules court reporters, expert witnesses and other experts for testimony at depositions and trial
• Classifies, sort and file correspondence, articles, records and other documents
• Operates standard and/or automated office equipment such as word processors, typewriters, transcribing software, case management software, photocopies, etc.
• Maintains attorney calendar by accurately recording court dates and appearances as directed
• Schedules meetings, depositions, and appointments
• Assembles documents, reports and information as requested to prepare for meetings
• Arranges necessary meeting spaces, secures conference rooms as needed
• Informs participants of meeting dates, times and location
• Resolves calendar conflicts by prioritizing and coordinates rescheduling dates as requested
• Tasks all deadlines in connection with appearances
• Tasks all deadlines in course and scope of daily job duties and upcoming assignments
• Schedules internal conferences related to legal files
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities
• Reads and understands professional publications regarding changes in Court rules and procedures; keeps current regarding changes in Court procedures and policies

Requirements

• Minimum: High School diploma or GED
• Preferred: Vocational certification or training in the legal field
• Minimum: Basic knowledge regarding terminology, discovery, pleadings, civil court deadlines
• Preferred: Minimum 1-2 years insurance defense or 1-2 years civil litigation experience
• Relevant work experience in the legal field; equivalent combination of education and/or experience considered
• Minimum: Ability to multitask and prioritize assignments
• Organization skills with an eye for details
• Ability follow directions
• Typing minimum 60 wpm
• Knowledge of legal terminology and legal document management (e.g., briefs, summonses, complaints, motions, pleadings and discovery)
• Effective oral and written communication skills with knowledge of correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation usage
• Ability to compose/draft routine pleadings and correspondence
• Ability to utilize and process available resources
• Detail orientated
• Ability to accurately calendar and manage conflicts across multiple calendars
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel and Outlook
• Preferred: Knowledge of federal and state court rules and e-filing procedures
• Familiarity with litigation management software systems
• Ability to be flexible to adapt and act quickly when urgent matters require it
• Trial experience

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Flexibility to work from anywhere in the United States for most positions
• Paid time off (vacation time, sick time, 9 paid Company holidays, volunteer hours)
• Incentive bonus programs (potential for holiday bonus, referral bonus, and performance-based bonus)
• Medical, dental, vision, life, and pet insurance
• 401 (k) retirement savings plan with company match
• Engaging work environment
• Promotional opportunities
• Education assistance
• Professional and personal development opportunities
• Company recognition program
• Health and wellbeing resources, including free mental wellbeing therapy/coaching sessions, child and eldercare resources, and more