Legal Assistant

About the role

We are seeking a detail-oriented Legal Assistant to support our team in Southfield, MI. This role involves extensive document production, file management, and administrative support to ensure the delivery of polished, accurate legal materials.

Responsibilities

• Draft, revise, proofread, and format correspondence, legal documents, client materials, agendas, and binders.
• Resolve formatting, style, and consistency issues in materials revised by multiple contributors.
• Prepare redline and comparison documents using Litera Compare.
• Utilize advanced Microsoft Word features, including styles, tables of contents, cross-references, section breaks, and document organization tools.
• Assist with document revisions and assembly using HotDocs and other legal technology applications.
• Ensure all work product is polished, accurate, and ready for client delivery.
• Create, organize, and maintain electronic and physical binders for attorneys and clients.
• Develop and maintain cross-referenced materials to improve document accessibility and organization.
• Prepare client-ready binders and presentation materials, often under tight deadlines.
• Perform digital scanning, document indexing, and electronic file organization.
• Update and revise binders as client and attorney needs change throughout the life of a matter.
• Work extensively with Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Acrobat, the firm’s document management system, and time and billing software.
• Convert, combine, edit, bookmark, and organize PDF documents.
• Maintain accurate electronic and physical records in accordance with firm procedures.
• Manage attorney calendars, schedule appointments, and coordinate meetings.
• Provide administrative support to attorneys, paralegals, and other staff as needed.
• Manage multiple projects with competing deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Communicate key dates and deadlines to attorneys to support timely completion of assignments.
• Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and time-sensitive requests.
• Remain organized and composed while balancing frequent updates and fast-turnaround projects.
• Communicate professionally and effectively with attorneys, clients, and colleagues.
• Collaborate with legal assistants and administrative staff to support team objectives and client needs.
• Maintain confidentiality and provide exceptional service in all interactions.

Requirements

• High school diploma required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in a law firm or in-house legal department required.
• Experience with legal document production, document formatting, or document management strongly preferred.

Skills

• Advanced Microsoft Word skills, including styles, formatting, tables of contents, cross-referencing, and document comparison tools.
• Experience with Adobe Acrobat and electronic document management systems.
• Strong proofreading, editing, and grammar skills.
• Ability and willingness to learn and use legal technology applications, including HotDocs and Litera Compare.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent time management and prioritization abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and client needs.
• Demonstrates reliability, sound judgment, and discretion with confidential information.
• Maintains a high level of accuracy and quality in all work product.
• Provides exceptional support and service to attorneys, clients, and colleagues.
• Works effectively and collaboratively with attorneys, paralegals, legal assistants, and staff throughout the firm.

Benefits

• Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company-paid life insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• 401(k) plan.
• Flexible voluntary benefit options to address personal needs.

About the firm

With over 100 years of history, Foster Swift serves businesses, municipalities, families, and individuals across Michigan, the nation, and beyond. Our conveniently located offices in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Southfield, and Holland allow us to provide unmatched legal expertise in a collaborative and supportive environment dedicated to delivering legal excellence and outstanding client service.