McGuire Wood & Bissette, P.A. has an immediate opening for a legal assistant to join its Litigation Practice Group. Ideal candidates will have prior legal experience in this area of law, but all interested applicants are encouraged to apply. A good attitude, excellent written and verbal communication skills, a dedication to client service, proofreading skills, and Microsoft Office proficiency are required. Competitive compensation DOE with occasional overtime, and excellent benefits package.
Job Summary
Performs a variety of secretarial duties for assigned attorney(s) according to established policies and procedures. Maintains positive contact with clients, attorneys, and staff and observes confidentiality of client matters.
Job Responsibilities
(But not Limited To)
•Use a wide range of legal or specialized knowledge to provide legal support services to attorneys, paralegals, and other staff members.
•Act as a client’s first contact for the attorneys.
•Open new files, assist in assembling documents, organize, update, and maintain client files (physical and electronic), including related e-mails, incoming mail, and correspondence.
•Conduct research and obtain information as instructed by supervising attorneys.
•File documents electronically, by mail, or by courier with the court system.
•Schedule office and telephone meetings; reserve necessary conference room(s).
•Maintain attorney(s) calendars, client lists, and deadline reports.
•Enter time and costs on the firm billing system as needed.
•Assist in the preparation of 1099s.
•Box and store documents at yearend.
•Assist in proofing drafts and final bills.
•Perform other duties as assigned.
Education
High School diploma or GED with a preference of 2+ years of recent legal assistance experience, preferably in litigation. Being appointed as a NC Notary is mandatory.
Job Knowledge
Working knowledge of legal terminology and the legal process specifically concerning
litigation and employment law is necessary; clerical and word processing skills with
accurate typing and numbers, spelling, grammar, and detailed proofreading skills; time
entry and billing procedure knowledge; proficient computer skills particularly in
Microsoft Office.
Practical Skills
Knowledge of business office procedures including, but not limited to excellent interpersonal and verbal communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with attorneys, clients parties, and staff; utilization of time management skills; capability to read, understand, and follow oral and written instructions; maintain productivity and work independently with accuracy and attention to detail. Ability to remain calm, professional, and focused when working under deadlines. Individuals must always present a professional persona.
Training
Up to six months of on-the-job training is necessary to become proficient in most phases of this position. Regular participation in related educational seminars is encouraged.
Organizational
Continual, ongoing face-to-face contact with firm attorneys and staff.
External
Daily face-to-face, telephone, fax, or e-mail contact with other law firms attorneys and staff, court system personnel, clients, and company representatives, and various other outside vendors.
Work Environment
Works in a fast-paced, well-lit, comfort-controlled, multi-level law office. Interaction with others may be constant and interruptive. Telephone and e-mail contact with various parties is heavy. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required. Work may be stressful.
Physical Demands
The position entails an immense amount of data entry, filing, answering phone calls, and possibly viewing computer screens for long periods. Must have manual dexterity sufficient to type 40 wpm, and operate a keyboard, calculator, telephone, copier, fax, and other office equipment as necessary. Stooping, bending, and stretching are required. Occasional lifting (usually not over 20 pounds) is required.
Job Type: Full-time
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- AD&D Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Free parking
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid time off
- Parental Leave
Schedule:
- 8-hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Travel requirement:
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Asheville, NC 28801: Reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (Required)
Experience:
- Legal Assistant: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Job Type: Full-time