Paralegal - Litigation
Foster Swift Collins & Smith, PC · Southfield, MI · 3 wk ago
On-siteLegalFull-time
Key Responsibilities
- Manage assigned caseloads from intake through resolution, including drafting case plans, timelines, and client status reports
- Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, gathering information and maintaining regular communication
- Review files for outstanding discovery in preparation for court appearances, pleadings, depositions, and trial
- Conduct factual and legal research, summarize findings, and prepare reports and memoranda for attorney review
- Assemble chronologies of key documents to assist in case strategy and trial preparation
- Draft substantive legal documents such as complaints, motions, discovery responses, affidavits, subpoenas, and trial preparation materials
- Ensure accuracy and compliance with court rules and deadlines
- Coordinate discovery processes, including drafting and responding to discovery requests, organizing exhibits, preparing deposition summaries, and assisting in trial preparation and courtroom logistics
- Process and follow up on subpoenas for the receipt of medical, employment, workers’ compensation, and other records
- Assemble, review, and summarize medical and other records
- Determine, prepare, and organize materials needed for expert witness review
- Prepare and file documents with state and federal courts using e-filing systems
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date docketing of key case deadlines and court appearances
- Use firm systems proficiently, including document management systems, time tracking, litigation support software, and Office 365
- Billing & Timekeeping: Accurately track billable time in accordance with firm policies and contribute to pre-bill reviews for attorneys
- Professional Collaboration: Work closely with attorneys, other paralegals, and firm staff to support legal strategy, ensure client service excellence, and maintain a proactive approach to case needs
Requirements
- Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree required; completion of an ABA-approved paralegal program is strongly preferred
- Experience: Minimum of five years of paralegal experience in civil defense litigation required
Skills
- Strong knowledge of litigation procedures and legal terminology
- Excellent legal writing, proofreading, and research skills
- Able to manage multiple cases and deadlines with precision
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and legal technology platforms
- High level of professionalism, discretion, and client service orientation
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Able to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment