Litigation Paralegal – North Barrington, Illinois
Position Summary:
The Litigation Paralegal is responsible for providing comprehensive administrative and litigation support to attorneys. This includes preparing legal documents, managing court deadlines, organizing case materials, handling client communication, and contributing to trial and hearing preparations. The role requires a high level of professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
Responsibilities:
- Draft responses to discovery or client requests and review responses from opposing counsel
- Prepare client correspondence and legal documents such as complaints, motions, responses, subpoenas, and probate filings under attorney supervision
- Organize and manage case files, exhibits, and electronic databases for litigation matters
- Coordinate and manage court filings in both state and federal courts, including e-filing
- Determine and prioritize time-sensitive matters and respond accordingly
- Schedule meetings, depositions, and arrange conference rooms or virtual meetings as needed
- Manage attorney calendars, court dates, and critical deadlines through docketing software
- Track and record billable hours and litigation-related expenses
- Answer, screen, and initiate phone calls and emails on behalf of attorneys
- Coordinate with clients, co-counsel, and external vendors to exchange case-related information
- Keep clients informed of upcoming depositions, hearings, or meetings
- Assist attorneys with legal research, as needed, using online databases
- Execute edits to documents as directed by attorneys to produce final drafts
- Maintain confidentiality and handle privileged information with discretion
- Maintain and update legal templates, forms, and document management systems
- Provide receptionist support as needed
- Deliver exceptional client service by returning calls promptly and anticipating client needs
- Participate in trial preparation, including compiling trial binders and exhibit lists
- Perform all other duties as assigned
Required Skills:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Knowledge of legal terminology and court rules
- Experience with e-filing platforms and document management software
- Exceptional organizational and multitasking ability
- Ability to type 60+ WPM with high accuracy
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat; experience with legal billing and case management systems preferred
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Excellent proofreading, grammar, and formatting skills
- Discretion and professionalism in all client and case matters
Education/Training:
- Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certificate preferred
- Minimum of 3 years of litigation paralegal or legal secretary experience required
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance