Legal Secretary - Litigation Varnum LLP a Michigan-based full-service law firm with over 180 attorneys and six officeshas a full-time opening for an experiencedLegal Secretaryin ourAnn Arbor officesupporting ourlitigationpractice team. We are seeking a candidate who is organized and displays a keen attention to detail with a superb commitment to client service. This individual should be comfortable working independently as well as part of a team. ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES: - Participates on a client-focused team displaying professionalism excellent communication skills and exercising personal judgment under the ultimate direction of assigned timekeepers.
- Prepares correspondence memos pleadings briefs forms and other documents in proper legal form; files legal documents with appropriate attachments both electronically and via traditional filing methods.
- Transcribes documents from dictation; proofreads and edits all documents to ensure accuracy and professional appearance.
- Answers telephone calls in a courteous and professional manner; forwards messages to the intended parties; answers non-legal questions. Places phone calls as needed or requested.
- Receives reads and routes incoming postal mail.
- Arranges for the proper delivery of documents/projects via courier runs hand-deliveries Federal Express UPS Express Mail etc.; provides complete information to courier for delivery.
- Maintains calendars and deadline reminder systems (docket) for all case-related dates including but not limited to appointments deadlines and follow-up dates. Reviews calendar reports generated from docket control system. Maintains appointment and deadline calendar for attorneys.
- Enters and proofreads time in the billing system; to the extent possible ensures accurate entry of complete information before each monthly deadline on an as needed basis.
- Opens new files performs conflict of interest checks through conflicts control system and maintains all electronic and physical client and general files in a neat and orderly condition. Closes inactive files in a timely manner and in accordance with the Record Retention & Destruction Policy and Guideline.
- Schedules depositions hearings appointments and conference calls; prepares necessary documents and copies for meetings.
- Requests checks for filing fees etc. and attorneys business expense reimbursements.
- Assists with legal assistant work overflow or absence coverage as time permits or needs dictate and as requested by other attorneys paralegals or Human Resources representatives.
- Attend staff meetings training sessions and other required employee meetings.
- Copying typing scanning faxing and any other general office duty as needed.
- Maintains confidentiality in all firm and client matters.
- Assists with other firm work as directed by attorney or paralegal.
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS: Education: Completion of high school. Experience: Two to three years on the job experience in order to gain an understanding of law office policies and procedures and produce accurate legal documents with minimal supervision. - 2 years experience as a legal assistant or experience in a law firm.
- Bachelors degree in legal studies or related field preferred.
Required Skills/Abilities: - Proficient in MS Office Suite and legal document management software with the ability to transcribe legal documents correspondence and reports from rough draft dictation or transcription at a level of at least 30 wpm.
- Excellent proofreading skills.
- Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities to meet deadlines and manage competing priorities.
- Works independently and completes tasks with minimal supervision.
- Professional demeanor and ability to work well in a team-oriented environment.
- Ability to communicate and follow instructions effectively from a diverse group of attorneys and staff.
- Committed to providing responsive client service.
- Occasional hours outside of normally-scheduled hours.
Preferred Skills: - Knowledge of iManage or other document management systems.
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