Trial Paralegal

Job Description

Job Description

Trial Paralegal

Fort Lauderdale, Florida (In-Office)

*Please be sure to read until the bottom on this job posting, as there are special instructions for applicants to follow to be considered for the position

This Position Requires Excellence

If you're seeking a routine role with mundane tasks, this position isn't the right fit. But if you're driven by challenge, accuracy, precision, and the opportunity to make a genuine difference, then this is the place for you.

About Kelley Uustal

Kelley Uustal handles cases others won't touch. We represent individuals and families against the most powerful corporations and institutions in Florida and across the nation—cases other firms have declined because they're too complex, too risky, or deemed unwinnable.  We're the firm attorneys call when they need help with their most difficult cases. We secure justice for clients who've been told they don't stand a chance.  We win because we outwork the opposition, uncover what others miss, and refuse to accept anything less than excellence.

The Role

This is not traditional paralegal work. You'll be an integral part of our trial teams handling high-stakes, complex litigation.  You will be working with some of the brightest minds the legal practice has ever seen. From routine case filings in State and Federal court to being an active participant in jury selection, this role has it all.  This firm handles medical malpractice cases exposing systemic failures, product liability claims against Fortune 500 corporations, wrongful death litigation, and matters that often make national headlines. These are cases where lives have been changed, society protected, and justice is paramount.

The families and individuals we represent depend on our team's excellence. Every detail matters. Every document counts. You'll feel the significance of this responsibility in everything you do.

Are You the Ideal Candidate

Sense of Purpose : This work means something to you beyond a paycheck. You believe in advocating for individuals against powerful interests, and you want your professional life to contribute to meaningful outcomes.

Exceptional Attention to Detail: You naturally catch what others overlook. You notice when page 847 contradicts page 412. You create organizational systems that make complex information accessible and clear. 

Performs Under Pressure : You thrive when the stakes are high. Tight deadlines sharpen your focus rather than create anxiety. When trial is approaching and perfection is required, you're at your best. In a ‘fight’ or ‘flight’ scenario, you always choose ‘fight’.

Commitment to Excellence : Good work doesn't satisfy you—you're driven to be great. You hold yourself to the highest professional standards and take pride in being someone attorneys specifically request for their most important cases.  If ‘good enough’ is a standard for you, do not apply for this job.

Primary Responsibilities

• Support attorneys through all phases of complex litigation, from discovery through trial and verdict.
• Manage complex discovery and document productions, including organizing and maintaining case materials for efficient trial preparation.
• Prepare and manage trial exhibits, exhibit lists, witness materials, trial binders, demonstratives, and other trial-related materials.
• Coordinate witness and expert preparation, including scheduling, records and materials, subpoenas, and trial logistics.
• Assist with deposition preparation and designations, pretrial filings, motions, and other trial-related submissions.
• Conduct legal and factual research that directly supports case development and trial strategy.
• Provide drafting, filing, and organizational support for depositions, hearings, pretrial proceedings, and trials.
• Maintain critical case and trial deadlines and ensure the trial team is prepared for upcoming filings, hearings, and court requirements.
• Work collaboratively with attorneys, experts, investigators, vendors, and other members of the trial team to ensure seamless preparation and execution.

Required Qualifications

• Paralegal certificate, bachelor's degree, or equivalent experience
• 3+ years of litigation paralegal experience, with demonstrated hands-on trial experience from pretrial preparation through verdict.
• Ability to adapt to evolving technology, including the responsible use of approved, secure AI tools.
• Proficiency in case management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and Adobe Acrobat
• Strong commitment to confidentiality and professional ethics

What We Provide

• Purpose-Driven Environment : Be part of victories that create real change for real people.
• Professional Development : You'll acquire skills and experience that distinguish you in this profession.
• Exceptional Colleagues : Work alongside dedicated professionals who share your commitment to excellence.
• Competitive Compensation and Benefits : We invest in talented individuals who invest in our mission - Salary will be commensurate with experience.

Required Unique Application Process:

To be considered for this position, please call View phone number on ziprecruiter.com and follow the recorded prompts for the next steps in the application process. Be sure to listen to the entire message and complete all instructions. Candidates who do not complete this process will not be considered. If you have made it this far, you have already demonstrated one of the qualities we value most-attention to detail. We look forward to hearing from you!