Legal Administrative Assistant

Sleigh Law is seeking an experienced and organized Legal Administrative Assistant to join our criminal defense practice in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. This is a fast-paced, client-focused position involving substantial interaction with clients and their families, courts, prosecutors' offices, law-enforcement agencies, corrections personnel, and other professionals. Many of our clients are confronting serious and stressful circumstances. The successful candidate must be able to communicate calmly and respectfully with people in crisis while maintaining professional boundaries, sound judgment, and strict confidentiality. This is not solely a behind-the-scenes administrative role. The position requires frequent telephone communication, careful management of deadlines, and the ability to shift priorities as court schedules and client needs change. Primary Responsibilities: Manage a substantial volume of incoming calls, messages, and front-office communications Completing intake forms, engagement materials, and follow-up Communicating regularly with clients, family members, courts, law-enforcement agencies, and other parties Opening and maintaining electronic case files using current case-management software Obtaining and organizing discovery, records, reports, and other case materials Preparing, formatting, proofreading, and filing legal documents Scheduling court appearances, client meetings, depositions, conferences, and other appointments Monitoring and updating calendars, marking deadlines, and designating attorney assignments Coordinating the exchange of information among attorneys, clients, courts, and outside agencies Handling sensitive and confidential information with discretion Providing general administrative support to attorneys and other members of the firm Qualifications: The ideal candidate will have: Prior administrative or law firm experience, preferably in criminal defense, prosecution, courts, or another fast-paced professional setting Proficiency with modern case-management software and electronic document systems Strong skills in Microsoft Office, PDF editing, email, electronic filing, and calendar management Excellent written and verbal communication skills Strong organizational skills and close attention to detail The ability to manage competing priorities, interruptions, and time-sensitive assignments A calm, respectful, and professional manner when working with people experiencing stress or crisis The ability to maintain strict client confidentiality The ability to work both independently and collaboratively Experience with FileVine or other case management systems and familiarity with Vermont court procedures are preferred, but we will consider candidates with strong related experience and the ability to learn quickly Location: On-site with the opportunity for some remote work Compensation: Salary based upon experience Benefits: Health insurance, retirement plan,4 weeks paid vacation, all state holidays Start Date: September 1 or as soon as practicable #J-18808-Ljbffr