Legal Secretary

Legal Secretary The Legal Secretary provides litigation and administrative support to attorneys across SMW's land use and environmental practice, helping our legal teams deliver exceptional representation to clients advancing environmental protection, sustainable communities, and social justice. Key Responsibilities Manage attorney calendars, track litigation deadlines, schedule hearings, and coordinate logistics across multiple matters. Draft, proofread, format, and finalize correspondence, pleadings, and other legal documents. File and serve documents in California state and federal courts, ensuring compliance with all applicable court rules and deadlines. Prepare and format complex legal documents, including generating Tables of Authorities and Tables of Contents using Microsoft Word styles. Maintain attorney time records and assist with billing and other administrative tasks. Monitor court and agency dockets, calendars, and agendas as assigned. Support firmwide administrative initiatives, including MCLE compliance, proposal (RFP/RFQ) preparation, and other special projects. Required Qualifications 0-3+ years of experience as a legal secretary or legal assistant in a litigation environment. Working knowledge of California and federal court rules, filing procedures, and electronic filing systems. Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Word (including document styles, Tables of Authorities, and Tables of Contents), Outlook, and PDF document management software. Excellent written communication, grammar, proofreading, and formatting skills with exceptional attention to detail. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively in a team-oriented environment. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting land use, environmental, public interest, or nonprofit legal practices. Familiarity with AI-assisted legal technology, such as Claude, Harvey, or similar platforms. Experience with California appellate litigation and/or CEQA matters. Working Conditions This position is primarily office-based with a hybrid work schedule. The role requires extended periods of computer work, including drafting, editing, and reviewing legal documents. Occasional overtime may be required to meet court deadlines or support active litigation. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Benefits SMW offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include: 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums Competitive retirement savings plan Monthly commuter benefit Monthly remote work/technology stipend Generous paid time off and paid holidays Professional development opportunities in a collaborative, mission-driven workplace Equal Employment Opportunity SMW is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, California, or San Francisco law. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment. Work Authorization Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. SMW is unable to sponsor employment visas for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr