Paralegal

Whiteford, Taylor & Preston, LLP•Richmond, VA

5h•Onsite

About The Position

The Commercial Real Estate Specialist/Paralegal will support attorneys in the Corporate and Securities section, whose practices are focused on commercial real estate transactions. This dual role requires an experienced professional who can independently manage high-volume transactions from start to finish, coordinate due diligence and closing processes, interface with clients and third parties, and contribute subject-matter expertise typical of a Commercial Real Estate Specialist. The Specialist/Paralegal will also mentor junior staff, implement workflow improvements, and serve as a key liaison between attorneys, clients, lenders and third parties. Strong organizational skills, deadline and calendar management, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously in a fast-paced legal environment are essential.

Requirements

Strong knowledge of commercial real estate transactions, closing procedures, and industry best practices
Excellent drafting, proofreading, and document management skills with exceptional attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously while maintaining accuracy
Strong understanding of title, survey and zoning issues
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
Effective written and verbal communication skills
Excellent client-facing skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and legal document management systems; proficiency with e-recording platforms
Ability to manage high-volume, complex matters with limited supervision
Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Ability to work independently with limited supervision and collaboratively within a legal team
High level of professional discretion and the ability to handle confidential and sensitive information
Must demonstrate aptitude for learning other office related software
Ability and willingness to work cooperatively and professionally with co-workers
Work schedule flexibility, including availability to work overtime
Bachelor’s degree and/or associate’s degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, or a related field required.
Knowledge of commercial real estate transactions and closing procedures

Nice To Haves

Paralegal certificate from an ABA-approved program preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, lenders, title companies, vendors, and opposing counsel throughout each transaction.
Coordinate complex commercial real estate closings, including schedules, deliverables, and compliance requirements.
Manage due diligence processes across multiple transaction types (acquisitions, dispositions, financings, refinancings, leasing portfolios).
Oversee communication and document flow between stakeholders to ensure timely completion of all transaction components.
Provide commercial real estate expertise to attorneys and clients regarding transaction timelines, market practices, closing expectations, and document requirements.
Maintain detailed checklists, closing agendas, and critical date tracking for all active matters.
Independently manage multiple commercial real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, leases, financings, and refinancings
Draft, review, and revise commercial real estate documents, including but not limited to purchase and sale agreements, loan documents, closing documents, amendments, etc.
Prepare title objection notices
Review title commitments, surveys, zoning reports and related due diligence materials
File formation documents, amendments, and other required filings with state and governmental agencies.
Assist with lender requirements, loan documentation, and closing requirements
Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and vendors
Coordinate and manage due diligence processes including review of title commitments, surveys, zoning reports and phase I environmental site assessments
Manage post–closing obligations and follow up items
Ensure compliance with internal procedures, client requirements, and applicable legal and ethical standards
Assist attorneys with workflow coordination and process improvements
Maintain organized physical and electronic transaction files