Legal Assistant

Malman Law•Chicago, IL

13d•$57,000 - $65,000•Onsite

About The Position

Malman Law is a fast-paced, growing plaintiffs' law firm focusing on nursing home and personal injury litigation. The Litigation Legal Assistant provides administrative and procedural support to attorneys and paralegals in the litigation department. The role assists with document preparation, court filings, case tracking, and coordination of legal proceedings, requiring attention to detail, ownership of tasks, and an understanding of litigation processes to meet court deadlines and maintain accurate case files. This is an in-office position in Chicago, Illinois, Monday through Friday, with an eight-hour shift. The position is full-time and non-exempt (hourly), with an annual salary range of $57,000–$65,000, commensurate with experience.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Understanding of litigation timelines, procedures, court filing rules, and service requirements.
High attention to detail and accuracy in document preparation and case tracking.
Proficiency in court e-filing systems and legal technology tools, including SmartAdvocate and PDF editing software.
Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Professional demeanor, reliability, and ability to work independently.
Empathy and compassion when interacting with injured clients or distressed parties.
Ability to sit for extended periods and work at a computer.
Ability to occasionally lift files, binders, or boxes weighing up to 25 pounds.
Ability to commute to Chicago, IL 60606, and relocate there before starting work.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree, paralegal certificate, or equivalent experience preferred.
One to three years of legal assistant or litigation support experience preferred.
Personal injury litigation experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

Prepare, format, and file complaints, motions, subpoenas, and other court documents in compliance with federal, Illinois, and local court rules.
Use electronic and paper filing systems, including Odyssey e-filing and CM/ECF, to manage court submissions.
Track filings, service of process, deadlines, and hearing dates using SmartAdvocate or other case management tools.
Schedule depositions, hearings, mediations, and other litigation events with opposing counsel, clients, witnesses, and experts.
Enter and track deadlines and appointments in SmartAdvocate.
Send notices and confirmations and follow up regarding scheduled events.
Assemble and organize exhibits, deposition binders, and trial materials.
Maintain case chronologies, indexes, and discovery logs to support attorneys and paralegals.
Conduct online research for court records, public documents, and party information as needed.
Coordinate communications regarding scheduling, document needs, and case updates while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
Arrange preparation meetings with clients and witnesses and ensure they receive relevant materials and instructions.
Maintain organized digital files with appropriate labeling and indexing in SmartAdvocate.
Manage a daily task list and complete assignments on or before deadlines.
Provide general administrative assistance, including docket management and case progress tracking.