Legal Assistant

Job Description:

JOB DESCRIPTION

* Provides administrative assistance to the attorneys, acts as a liaison among the leadership team, clients, and other external partners.

* Answers attorneys' phones and takes, prioritizes, responds to and/or relays messages.

* Answers the main reception line and reviews voicemail notifying recipients.

* Handles all in office meetings for assigned attorneys - including the setup of conference rooms and any IT requirements.

* Processes the reimbursement of expenses.

* Provides the highest level of service and support while producing consistently excellent work product.

* Maintains client and office files and records and must display a high level of initiative in supporting the administrative functions by proactively updating all files and procedures as required. Ensures the safeguarding, security, and appropriate access to confidential information.

* Drafts Engagement Letters and maintains records of same.

* Makes domestic and international travel arrangements across multiple time zones to include flights, transfers and accommodations through the firm's travel provider, ensuring adherence to firm policy, preparing detailed itineraries.

* Following the Firm's policies and procedures, coordinates arrangements for client and non-client meetings, including conference room reservations and multimedia.

* Prepares and proofreads legal documents and correspondence from handwritten material or rough copy. When appropriate, edits documents for proper phrasing and grammar to improve the flow of the message without altering the meaning. May reformat, spell check, and finalize attorney work product.

* Assists with entering attorney timesheets on a timely basis. May prepare, edit, and revise client bills and arrange for timely mailing of invoices.

Job Requirements:

Work Experience

* Minimum four (4) years as a Legal Assistant/Secretary and two (2) years in an Arbitration/Litigation team preferable.

* Document management experience is essential. Net Docs preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Personal Attributes

* Strong technical skills in all Microsoft Office and Internet applications. Ability to apply Styles to legal documents.

* Understanding of legal language, principles, research methods, court pleadings and processes.

* Strong administrative skills and attention to detail.

* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

* Ability to work well with others and assist co-workers and clients to achieve their goals and assignments.

* Ability to use initiative; identify problems, gather data, develop, and assess alternative courses of action.

* Confident in making timely decisions based on logical assumptions, using all available information.

* Proactive self-starter who works well without close supervision; also, receptive to receiving instructions.

* Ability to remain calm under pressure and able to manage competing demands.

* Ensure work is checked thoroughly and reviewed with instructing attorneys before finalizing work product.

* Professional in both appearance and conduct.

* Adaptability and flexibility with a willingness to do overtime on short notice and work weekends, if necessary.