Civil Litigation Paralegal

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title : Civil Litigation Paralegal

Employer : Steve Smith Trial Lawyers

Location : Augusta, ME (future potential for Portland)

Job Type : Full-Time

Job Summary :

Steve Smith Trial Lawyers is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Civil Litigation Paralegal to join our team. This role is critical in providing high-level support to our attorneys in all aspects of civil litigation, including contract disputes, property matters, personal injury claims, and business litigation. The ideal candidate will have experience in civil litigation and a background as either a paralegal or high-level legal assistant. They must be proactive, highly organized, and able to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced legal environment.

Primary Responsibilities :

Case Management & Client Support :

• Assist attorneys in all phases of civil litigation, from initial client intake through trial and resolution.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery requests, responses, and settlement agreements.
• Manage case files, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timely filing of court documents.
• Maintain communication with clients, providing updates, gathering necessary information, and ensuring they understand the legal process.
• Coordinate and schedule meetings, depositions, hearings, mediations, and trial preparations.

Legal Research & Document Preparation :

• Conduct legal research and gather case law relevant to civil litigation matters.
• Prepare trial exhibits, case summaries, and chronologies.
• Assist attorneys in trial preparation, including organizing evidence, witness lists, and court filings.
• Ensure all filings comply with court rules and deadlines.

Administrative & Office Support :

• Maintain attorney calendars and deadline tracking.
• Work closely with court personnel and opposing counsel to facilitate case progress.
• Assist with billing by tracking billable hours and preparing invoices as needed.
• Support attorneys in drafting correspondence and legal memoranda.
• Must be willing to take on additional responsibilities as needed beyond listed duties.

Qualifications :

Experience & Education :

• Minimum of 1-3 years of experience as a paralegal or high-level legal secretary, with a strong background in civil litigation.
• Associates or bachelors degree in Paralegal Studies, Legal Studies, or a related field preferred (or equivalent work experience).
• Familiarity with Maine civil litigation procedures and court rules is highly preferred.

Skills & Competencies :

• Knowledge of civil litigation processes, filings, and deadlines.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and drafting skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and legal practice management software.
• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a client-focused approach.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive legal matters with professionalism.
• Ability to anticipate needs

Key Attributes :

• Dependable and able to work independently while collaborating with attorneys and staff.
• Proactive problem solver with a positive, solution-oriented attitude.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with clients, attorneys, and court personnel.
• Ability to manage stressful situations with tact and professionalism.

Compensation & Benefits :

• Health insurance and employer-subsidized benefit options.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid time off, including holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

If you are an civil litigation paralegal looking for a dynamic and collaborative work environment, we encourage you to apply!

Steve Smith Trial Lawyers is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.