Legal Practice Specialist - Litigation

McDermott Will & Emery•Chicago, IL

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

McDermott Will & Schulte is a leading global law firm seeking a Legal Practice Specialist for its Litigation Practice Group. This role involves performing a variety of administrative support tasks for multiple assigned attorneys. The ideal candidate will be solutions-oriented with excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills. This position operates under general supervision, relying on instructions and guidelines to perform essential functions. A strong understanding and experience in litigation, including trial preparation, database management, and filing in various jurisdictions, is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or related legal work experience
At least five (5) years of litigation experience
Knowledge of court rules and civil procedures in State and Federal jurisdictions
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Word)
Strong written and verbal communication skills; professional demeanor and presentation
Strong client service skills with high-level standards of excellence in work product to meet or exceed client and Firm expectations
Strong organizational skills, time management skills, and attention to detail
Ability to work under tight deadlines and prioritize responsibilities
Strong problem-solving skills with ability to take initiative and use good judgment and excellent follow-up skills
Ability to maintain and handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion and diplomacy
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Working knowledge of Relativity, PACER, CM/ECF, Westlaw, Lexis, as well as other relevant litigation applications is preferred (File & ServeXpress)
Knowledge of trial procedures including managing databases, filing in various jurisdictions, and other aspects of trial preparation

Responsibilities

Knowledge of court rules and civil procedures in State and Federal jurisdictions, including experience with electronic filing in File & ServeXpress and PACER/CM/ECF.
Support all aspects of trial preparation, including handling logistics and supporting at trial as necessary.
Internet research using Lexis and Westlaw, including obtaining court dockets from PACER, Court/ Agency websites or other research tools.
Assemble binders for court/agency filings, services and MWS client files (including all attachments).
Handle and manage intake process beginning with conflicts check through to the creation of the client/matter number.
Prepare subpoenas, court scheduling stipulations, motions, and brief templates.
Edit, proofread, and redline documents (agreements, pleadings, spreadsheets, and presentations) and correspondence for accuracy, grammar and formatting.
Review and edit prebills; work with billing practice group to ensure client bills are sent out timely.
Oversee attorney expense reports and vendor invoices through to completion including, ensuring complete documentation is provided, prompt submission, and necessary follow-up.
Manage attorney Outlook email and calendar when requested to include providing reminders of responses needed and impending deadlines and obligations.
Organize attorney travel logistics, including scheduling flights, hotel, meals, transportation, etc.
Input, review, edit, and update attorney time entries.
Coordinate meeting logistics, including scheduling, arranging videoconferences, conferences calls, and conference rooms; requesting equipment and food and beverage orders; preparing presentation materials; and welcoming visitors.
Assist in coordinating closing dinners for attorneys; handling logistics for small attorney events in partnership with the Firm Events team.
Answer incoming telephone calls and document and relay messages.
Organize and maintain paper and electronic files in accordance with Firm records retention policies.
Proactively remind attorneys of impending deadlines and obligations.