Legal Assistant (paralegal)

Profile

Legal Assistant (Paralegal)
Duties: Performs legal research under the direction of an attorney. Gathers information regarding laws, ordinances, regulation, court decisions and similar materials. Drafts legal documents and correspondence including, but not limited to, briefs, pleadings, opinions, stipulations, leases, deeds, contracts, and other legal documents. Prepares summaries of research results and conclusions. Locates and interviews clients and witnesses, and researches facts to obtain necessary information. Acts as liaison among clients, various internal departments as well as with outside agencies and parties. Assists attorneys in conducting discovery by formulating discovery requests and discovery responses. Works directly with attorneys and clients during various types of transactions through closing. Locates, collects, organizes, reviews and summarizes documents. Conducts on-site investigations. Prepares histories and chronologies of events or other subject matter. Attends meetings, depositions, mediations, settlement conferences, and trials with attorneys. Assists attorneys in the development of case strategy and in the negotiation and settlement of claims and lawsuits. Identifies and consults with expert witnesses. Assists attorneys in all facets of trials including compilation of witness and trial notebooks and identification and compilation of trial exhibits. Prepares oral and written reports, and presentations. Maintains and operates computerized databases for docket control, case management, calendaring, and litigation support purposes. Provides administrative assistance such as preparation of case statistic reports, case summaries, litigation activity reports and other reports as requested by management. Organizes and maintains litigation, evidence materials, case and other legal files and records. Files pleadings and other legal documents with courts or administrative agencies; efiles documents in all courts. Assists attorneys in carrying out their assignments. Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; and participating in professional organizations. Summarizes discovery documents. Schedules and arranges depositions, IMEs and other requested meetings, conferences and hearings. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualification and Experience

Qualifications: Successful completion of an American Bar Association-approved paralegal/legal studies program and three years of work experience as a Legal Assistant. OR An Associate’s degree with a specialization in paralegal studies from an American Bar Association-approved institution and 2 years of work experience as a Legal Assistant. OR Bachelor’s degree with a specialization in paralegal studies, legal studies, or legal administration from an American Bar Association-approved institution, and six months of work experience as a Legal Assistant. Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be evaluated on an individual basis. Knowledge of: The major legal subjects are applicable to analyzing and appraising facts, evidence, and precedent. Research and analysis methods. Legal practices and procedures. Microsoft Office Suites. SKILL IN: Interpreting instructions and guidelines in order to make decisions and take necessary action(s). Preparing a variety of legal-related documents. Writing reports. Legal research and analysis. Use of technology as a tool to provide support to attorneys. ABILITY TO: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Proofread and edit correspondence and legal documents for accurate grammar, spelling and punctuation usage. Identify and solve complex problems. Determine work priorities. organize work and establish priorities. Assist in establishing client relations. Effectively manage time. Follow instructions. Maintain composure during stressful situations occurring as a result of workloads and/or deadlines. Interact effectively with the public and departmental personnel with tact and diplomacy.
Closing Date: 06/30/21 11:59 PM

Additional info

Position #2020209194132

Company info

Hiring Coordinator
The City of Detroit Law Department
1650 First National Building
660 Woodward Ave
Detroit, MI 48226-3535