Legal Assistant - Civil Litigation

SMITH FREED & EBERHARD PC • Seattle, WA

9h • Hybrid

About The Position

At Smith Freed Eberhard, a tier one litigation defense firm, the Seattle office is seeking an experienced Legal Assistant specializing in civil defense work. This role provides crucial support to a team of Attorneys and Paralegals throughout the litigation process. The firm fosters a collaborative and casual work environment, prioritizing meaningful contributions and delivering exceptional client service. Smith Freed Eberhard is committed to fostering diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.

Requirements

• A minimum of two years’ experience as a legal assistant - litigation.
• Working knowledge of the litigation process and experience with court and agency rules including filing requirements, and experience e-filing in applicable counties.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work efficiently under strict deadlines.
• Discretion and professionalism when handling confidential information.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Manage and organize case files, including electronic documents and physical files.
• Draft and proofread legal documents such as pleadings, discovery requests, and responses.
• Assist Attorneys in preparing for hearings, depositions, and trials by organizing exhibits, scheduling witnesses, and coordinating logistics, including travel arrangements.
• Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel in a professional manner.
• Manage calendars and schedules for court appearances, deadlines, and meetings.
• Handle administrative tasks such as answering phones, updating contacts in practice software and in Outlook, scheduling appointments, and managing correspondence.
• Stay current on relevant legal developments, court rules, and procedures.
• Provide general administrative support to the legal team as needed.
• Deliver excellent client service.
• Accurately file court documents both electronically and in document form with the ability to determine and follow any local or judge specific requirements related to same. Occasional work on Federal Court cases may be required.
• Anticipate the needs of assigned Attorneys to promote timekeeper efficiencies (i.e., draft correspondence, prepare shell pleading and discovery documents in advance).
• Maintain attorney specific case lists, charts, status of cases and outcomes, as well as update relevant case details in software.
• Juggle multiple assignments and/or deadlines while maintaining a professional demeanor and seek timely assistance when necessary.
• Exhibit sound judgment and organizational skills to receive, record and disseminate all information on behalf of the clients and assigned attorneys (e.g., mail, interoffice mail, email, etc.)
• Proactively review and ensure accuracy of vendor invoices; prepare accurate check requests and timely submit invoices for payment to client or internal accounting.
• Knowledge of client-specific billing and general guidelines and restrictions and consistently apply those guidelines to ensure cost-effective practices.

Benefits

• Starting at $30 - $32/hour – depending on experience
• Bonus opportunities
• Student debt repayment assistance
• Employer paid Health, Dental, Life and Vision Insurance
• Voluntary FSA, Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance, Additional Life Insurance, Pet Insurance
• 401k (with Employer matching)
• Mass transit and parking reimbursement assistance
• Remote working opportunities
• Casual office

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees