Director of Litigation Docketing

Davis Wright Tremaine LLP•Washington, DC

8d•$197,000 - $259,000•Remote

About The Position

This is an exciting opportunity to work for one of the top law firms in the U.S.! Davis Wright Tremaine LLP is looking for a Director of Litigation Docketing to join our team in our Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, or Washington D.C. offices. This position offers the flexibility to be fully remote while working within reasonable commuting distance from any of our offices. The Director of Litigation Docketing provides strategic leadership and oversight of the firm’s docketing operations, ensuring alignment with the firm's objectives and risk management policies. This role is responsible for managing and guiding the firm’s docketing professionals, maintaining compliance with court rules and deadlines, and optimizing docketing systems and processes. Additionally, the Director leads the implementation of firm-wide best practices in litigation support, driving efficiency, accuracy, and excellence in service delivery. In this key leadership position, the Director collaborates with firm leadership, attorneys, paralegals, and staff to ensure seamless operations and alignment with the firm's strategic goals. They are also charged with spearheading the development and implementation of innovative systems, processes, and procedures to enhance the quality and effectiveness of docketing services across the firm. At Davis Wright Tremaine, you will find challenging assignments, opportunities for professional growth and community involvement, and a culture of inclusion. DWT fosters inclusiveness and authenticity. Regardless of position, everyone here has a voice and the support is unparalleled.

Requirements

10+ years’ of experience in litigation docketing within a large law firm, including at least 5 years of senior level management experience
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent required; advanced degree, such as Master of Business Administration or similar, preferred
Advanced knowledge of court rules, procedures, deadlines, and compliance requirements across state and federal jurisdictions
Ability to lead, inspire, and develop a dynamic team
Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities to manage complex docketing challenges
Skill in identifying inefficiencies, evaluating risks, and implementing innovative solutions
Proficiency in docketing systems, legal research tools, and process optimization strategies
Exceptional organizational and time management skills to oversee high-volume, high-priority workflows
Superior communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate collaboration across litigation teams and firm leadership
Flexibility to adapt to evolving priorities in a fast-paced, results-driven environment
Ability to mentor and supervise junior members of the Litigation Docketing team
Some travel may be required

Nice To Haves

advanced degree, such as Master of Business Administration or similar, preferred

Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight:
Provide strategic vision and high-level oversight for the docketing team, ensuring seamless operations, proper staffing, and alignment with the firm’s litigation priorities and business objectives
Lead initiatives to build and foster a collaborative, highly skilled team, driving innovation and adopting processes that enhance efficiency and productivity
Oversee the development and management of a cohesive team of docketing professionals who deliver comprehensive support across business, litigation, and intellectual property-related services
Strategically manage workforce planning, including staffing decisions, performance evaluations, compensation strategies, professional development, and career progression, ensuring the team remains highly motivated and aligned with the firm’s goals
Strategy & Process Optimization:
Continuously monitor and assess the firm’s docketing systems, processes, and procedures to maximize efficiency, accuracy, and cost savings while minimizing risks that could adversely affect clients or the firm
Develop and propose strategies to refine and enhance docketing operations, leveraging emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices to meet organizational objectives
Collaborate with the firm’s technology and project management teams to design, manage, and implement docketing-related initiatives and system improvements
Analyze docketing data to identify patterns, risks, and opportunities, providing actionable recommendations to firm leadership to drive informed decisions
Act as a trusted subject matter expert and advisor to firm administrative leaders and practice group management, contributing to the creation, review, and ongoing updates of service standards, policies, and procedures for docketing
Serve as the primary resource for attorneys and firm professionals on issue resolution, policy guidance, best practices, and the optimal use of docketing systems. Build strong partnerships with practice group and administrative leaders to ensure docketing needs are effectively addressed and aligned with firm priorities
Technology Management:
Oversee the selection, implementation, and maintenance of docketing software and tools to meet evolving firm and client needs
Partner with technology vendors and internal stakeholders to ensure maximum utilization of docketing software. Provide advanced training for team members and litigation staff
Change Management & Innovation
Champion organizational change initiatives aimed at modernizing docketing operations to align with firm objectives and industry trends. Serve as a change agent who drives adoption of innovative tools, processes, and methodologies that support operational excellence
Leverage data analytics and AI-enabled technologies to streamline operations, improve decision-making, and fuel continuous process improvement
Build and execute a vision for change management strategies, ensuring department-wide adoption and enthusiasm for new processes and technologies.
Partner with firm leaders and stakeholders to cultivate a culture of adaptability, continuous improvement, and technological advancement