Case Manager

About the role

The Case Manager plays a crucial role in managing complex cases, matters, and entity-related duties under the supervision of attorneys. They are responsible for developing a deep understanding of cases and matters, streamlining tasks, and managing budgets efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Develops a thorough understanding of cases and matters, both factually and procedurally.
• Leverages knowledge to streamline tasks and create efficiencies.
• Considers staffing needs, training needs, and external vendor needs to produce high-quality work.
• Manages and trains case assistants, paralegals, and attorneys, delegating and supervising projects.
• Serves as the central point of contact for clients, often acting as a mentor and subject matter expert.
• Acts as a lead paralegal managing cases and guiding attorneys, paralegals, and case assistants.
• Develops and implements checklists, tracking systems, and other processes to enhance efficiency.
• Manages and maintains electronic tools for tracking and managing cases and client relationships.
• Interacts extensively with clients, co-counsel, opposing counsel, and other parties.
• Ensures compliance with relevant laws, rules, and procedures.
• Participates in all aspects of case management, including document collections, witness interviews, hearings, depositions, trials, arbitrations, and mediations.
• Manages budgets for both individual cases and the broader client relationship, adhering to DLA Piper's guidelines.
• Trains team members and business professionals in their respective practice groups.
• Works collaboratively with cross-functional teams in multiple jurisdictions and time zones.
• Communicates effectively with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties.
• Produces deliverables, answers phone calls, and responds to correspondence promptly and accurately.
• Meets deadlines and performs work duties as required.
• Fosters positive work relationships and complies with firm policies and practices.
• Engages in physical and sedentary activity, including working at a computer for extended periods.
• Manages competing demands in a fast-paced environment and works under pressure.
• Performs all other duties, tasks, or projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Four plus years' experience with the firm, including firm "hands-on" experience in specific practice groups.
• Extensive experience in setting up and running technical systems to manage cases and matters.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with clients, business professionals, and third parties.
• Proven ability to work on cross-functional teams in multiple jurisdictions and time zones.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and attention to detail skills to handle large volumes of work.
• Advanced technical skills to set up, track, and maintain cases and matters.
• Initiative, independence, and an appreciation for the business operations side of the firm.
• Commitment to the firm's business objectives and motivation to help achieve these objectives.
• Bachelor’s Degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, or a related field.
• California Paralegal Certification (if applicable).
• Minimum of 10 years' experience as a Paralegal in a specific practice group.

Skills

• Extensive knowledge of product liability, mass torts, and class actions matters.
• Advanced understanding of Federal, State, and local rules and procedures, including court filing procedures.
• Experience preparing for and participating in document collections, witness interviews, hearings, depositions, trials, arbitrations, and mediations.
• Proficiency with all software applications specific to practice group.
• “Good firm citizen” characteristics, including reliability, integrity, and professionalism.

Benefits

At DLA Piper, we offer a comprehensive package of benefits, including medical/dental/vision insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional growth and development. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.