Legal Assistant

About the role

The Litigation Legal Assistant provides administrative and procedural support to attorneys and paralegals in the litigation department. This role is responsible for assisting with document preparation, court filings, case tracking, and coordination of legal proceedings.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, format, and file complaints, motions, subpoenas, and other court documents in compliance with federal, Illinois, and local court rules.

• Utilize electronic and paper filing systems (e.g., Odyssey e-filing, CM/ECF) to manage court submissions.

• Track filings, service of process, deadlines, and hearing dates using SmartAdvocate or other case management tools.

• Schedule depositions, hearings, mediations, and other litigation events with opposing counsel, clients, witnesses, and experts.

• Ensure all deadlines and appointments are accurately entered into and tracked in SmartAdvocate.

• Send notices, confirmations, and timely follow-ups regarding scheduled events.

• Assemble and organize exhibits, deposition binders, and trial materials.

• Maintain case chronologies, indexes, and discovery logs to support attorneys and paralegals.

• Conduct online research for court records, public documents, and party information as needed.

• Cookordination communications regarding scheduling, document needs, and case updates while maintaining a high level of professionalism and confidentiality.

• Arrange preparation meetings with clients and witnesses, ensuring they receive all relevant materials and instructions.

• Maintain organized digital files with proper labeling and indexing in SmartAdvocate.

• Manage a daily task list, ensuring completion of assignments on or before deadlines.

• Provide general administrative assistance including docket management and case progress tracking.

Requirements

• Understanding of litigation timelines, procedures, court filing rules, and service requirements.

• High attention to detail and accuracy in document preparation and case tracking.

• Proficiency in court e-filing systems and legal technology tools (SmartAdvocate, PDF editing software).

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Professional demeanor, reliability, and ability to work independently.

• Empathy and compassion when interacting with injured clients or distressed parties.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.

• Associate’s Degree, Paralegal Certificate, or equivalent experience preferred.

• 1-3 years of legal assistant or litigation support experience preferred (personal injury litigation experience a plus).

Skills

• Understanding of litigation timelines, procedures, court filing rules, and service requirements.

• High attention to detail and accuracy in document preparation and case tracking.

• Proficiency in court e-filing systems and legal technology tools (SmartAdvocate, PDF editing software).

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Professional demeanor, reliability, and ability to work independently.

• Empathy and compassion when interacting with injured clients or distressed parties.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off (PTO).

• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

• Reasonable Accommodations

Pay

$57,000 – $65,000 annually, commensurate with experience.

Schedule

8 hour shift, Monday to Friday

Work Location

In person