Experienced Paralegal

About the role

Join a supportive, successful, and very collaborative legal team at Sterling Hughes, LLC, a rapidly growing law firm that exclusively practices family law with a fixed fee model.

Responsibilities

• Support two Attorneys in a fast-paced environment.
• File documents initially and in existing e-filed cases, and process payments related to the same.
• E-file any/all documents for your attorneys, and update attorneys with any/all changes in e-filing requirements.
• Draft and e-file pleadings including Summons and Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Petition to Establish Parentage, and any other required pleadings in a divorce or parentage proceeding.
• Prepare and submit prove-up documents in each county.
• Draft and e-file other documents as requested by attorneys, including but not limited to Appearance forms, Temporary Support Pleadings, Requests for Mediation/Guardian ad Litem, Motions, Rule to Show Cause and Financial Affidavits, etc.
• Prepare Interrogatories & Requests for Production of Documents.
• Prepare Answers to Interrogatories & Requests (compile all documentation; scan, categorize, tag, and draft the written responses; prepare copies per attorney instructions).
• Prepare Request for Pretrial: draft Pre-Trial Memos for attorney review; forward Pre-Trial Memos with all exhibits to judge and opposing counsel.
• Manage attorney calendars including scheduling all hearings, prove ups and continuously reviewing/reconciling electronic dockets in counties.
• Schedule Client, opposing party and opposing counsel calls.
• Process incoming mail: scanning documents into the client file, forwarding mail to client and attorney, and determining/coordinating next steps.
• Organize and update electronic and/or physical file: Court case, participants, folders, county, judge, opposing counsel, GAL, etc.
• Filing of the attorney's in/outbox into physical files.
• Cook up and facilitate the completion and execution of Qualified Domestic Relations Orders.
• Closeout files: confirm that the attorney sent a closing email and that our billing department has any financial information needed to complete the closing process.
• Enter and submit for reimbursement any case expenses.
• Ordering office supplies, filling paper in printers, changing printer cartridges when needed, adding funds to the postage meter, and fulfilling other office duties as necessary.
• Carry out follow-up communication with clients for case updates, incoming/outgoing mail, new hearing dates, scheduling meetings with the attorneys, etc.
• Prepare documents for Service, coordinating with the Process Server, and providing all documents; follow-up to confirm service, file Affidavit of Service, and inform the attorney/client of the same.

Requirements

2-3 years of family law experience but will consider motivated candidates with relevant skills and no family law experience.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent. Relevant work experience in a legal setting preferred.

Skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with e-filing systems and document management software.

Benefits

• Base salary range starting at $50,000 to $61,900 commensurate with experience.
• Incentive based bonus.
• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• 401K with Matching.
• Short & Long-Term Disability.

Pay

$50,000 to $61,900 commensurate with experience.

Schedule & Location

Monday - Friday from 8:30am-5pm. This role will begin with a 90-day training period in our Arlington Heights office mainly and may include the Naperville office as well.