JOB SUMMARY:
Utilizes experience and broad-based knowledge of resources, practices and methods to handle complex tasks and projects, with minimal supervision, during all phases oflitigation/corporate work. The Senior Legal Assistant/Paralegal will assist attorneys in the form of document productions, legal research, drafting of legal and business communications, advanced review and analysis of documents, high-level coordination of case/deal management/logistics and problem solving. Provides guidance to legal assistants, attorneys and other professional staff.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Provides all of the essential functions as of a legal assistant, including but not limited to:
- Assists with all stages of document production
- Organises and manages electronic and paper files
- Assists with document review (relevance, privilege, codes documents, priv log, searches)
- Prepares and assembles document files, organises (chronologically, numerically or as requested) and maintains files
- Creates and maintains databases and runs complex searches to locate documents
- Performs legal and non-legal research using a variety of legal research tools for case law, legislation, commentary and practical guidance
- Prepares Audit Response Letters in line with the Firm's audit letter procedure
- Redacts, index, print, photocopy, scan and quality checks
- Utilises FTP sites and manages S Docs
- Assists with witness preparation materials for interviews/depositions
- Assists to revise drafts of disclosure indices, pleadings bundle and correspondence indices, exhibits, court letters and cost schedules
- Prepares chronological sets, exhibits, legal opinions, legal authorities and expert reports
- Assists with drafts of documents: disclosure lists, witness statements, build/source exhibits to statements, amend and proofread exhibits and draft statement of costs
- Pull cases and carry out cite checking
- Proofreads and cross reference documents
- Prepares and files court papers
- Prepares distribution of documents
- Travels and delivers documents
- Assists with organising trial documents and trial set up and provides logistical pre/post trial support
- Assists during trial (taking notes, handling files, updates and inserts to bundles)
- Archives and disposes of documents following department protocols
- Liaises with external agencies to organize translators, notaries, transcribers etc.
- Handles advanced, complex projects and tasks, with minimal supervision.
- Assumes ownership of projects and acts as 'project contact' between attorneys, members of the department and other professional staff when coordinating large scale projects.
- Offers guidance to attorneys and legal assistants on best practices regarding case or transactional management.
- Acts as 'buddy' to legal assistants and takes on full responsibility to provide one to one guidance and support on new or complex assignments, as needed.
- Performs high-level or advanced legal and non-legal research.
- Performs high-level or advanced review and analysis of documents, highlights relevant issues succinctly.
- Assists with more complex pieces of drafting, as requested.
- Utilizes experience, knowledge and resources to provide high level support across all practice areas.
- Shares experience and knowledge with the L/A team throughout.
- Ensures document files are maintained with department approved protocols and case management systems.
- Demonstrates effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills to facilitate effective work relationships with others.
- Manages Firm resources responsibly.
- Complies with and understands Firm operation, policies and procedures.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
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ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER JOB-RELATED COMPETENCIES:
- Strong knowledge of MS Word and Excel with technology awareness and the ability to learn new software and operating systems
- Ability to navigate various electronic databases, virtual data rooms and document review platforms
- Strong research skills and proficiency in using various research tools, including Westlaw UK, Lexis Library, Practical Law, company registries and other court related websites
- Excellent analytical, troubleshooting and planning skills
- Demonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills, both verbally and in writing
- Ability to handle multiple projects and shifting priorities
- Demonstrates ability to pay close attention to detail and performs with high degree of consistent accuracy
- Displays strong initiative in carrying out assignments and assumes a high level of responsibility for assigned tasks
- Ability to handle sensitive matters and maintain confidentiality
- Ability to organize and prioritize work
- Ability to work well independently as well as effectively within a team
- Ability to work well in a demanding and fast-paced environment
- Ability to use discretion and exercise independent and sound judgment
- Ability to deal courteously/effectively with others
- Ability to enhance the L/A department through exceptional client service
- Flexibility to travel
- Flexibility to adjust hours and work the hours necessary to meet operating and business needs
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
- Legal Practice Course with corporate electives only (corporate)
- Law Degree or Graduate Diploma in Law or similar
- Minimum of four years of experience in a corporate/litigation legal assistant position or a position requiring similar skillset, expertise and experience
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