Trust Litigation Paralegal

Job Description

Job Description

Trust Litigation Paralegal Job Description 

Position Summary 

The Trust Litigation Paralegal provides legal and administrative support to the attorneys of the Firm by assisting with contested trust and estate case management, legal research, drafting legal documents, client communication, and trial preparation. The Paralegal performs substantive legal work under the direct supervision of a licensed Florida attorney but may not provide legal advice, establish attorney-client relationships, set legal fees, or otherwise engage in the unauthorized practice of law. 

Reports To 

Managing Attorney or Supervising Attorney 

Employment Status 

• Full-Time or Part-Time 

• Non-Exempt (unless otherwise classified in accordance with applicable federal and Florida law) 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Case Management 

• Maintain attorney case files in electronic and physical formats. 

• Organize pleadings, correspondence, discovery, exhibits, and client documents. 

• Track deadlines using the firm's calendaring system. 

• Monitor statutes of limitation, court deadlines, and scheduling orders. 

• Maintain accurate case notes and document management systems. 

Client Communication 

• Serve as a point of contact for clients regarding case status. 

• Obtain information and documentation from clients. 

• Schedule client meetings and attorney conferences. 

• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality during all client interactions. 

• Ensure timely follow-up with clients regarding requested documentation. 

Legal Drafting 

Prepare drafts of legal documents for attorney review, including: 

• Pleadings 

• Motions 

• Notices 

• Discovery requests and responses 

• Subpoenas 

• Affidavits 

• Settlement agreements 

• Correspondence 

• Probate, family law, estate planning, personal injury, real estate, or civil litigation documents as applicable 

All documents must be reviewed and approved by a licensed attorney before filing or distribution when required. 

Legal Research 

• Conduct legal research using approved legal research platforms. 

• Summarize statutes, regulations, and case law. 

• Prepare legal memoranda for attorney review. 

• Research procedural rules and filing requirements. 

Discovery 

• Draft discovery requests and responses. 

• Organize document production. 

• Prepare exhibits and witness files. 

• Review medical records, business records, financial documents, and other evidence. 

• Coordinate responses to subpoenas. 

Court Filings 

• Electronically file documents through the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal. 

• Prepare hearing notebooks. 

• Coordinate service of process. 

• Schedule hearings, mediations, depositions, and trials. 

• Ensure compliance with local court rules. 

Trial Preparation 

• Assist attorneys in preparing hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials. 

• Organize exhibits and witness materials. 

• Prepare trial notebooks. 

• Coordinate witnesses and experts. 

• Assist during trial proceedings as requested. 

Administrative Responsibilities 

• Maintain billable time records (if applicable). 

• Assist with conflict checks. 

• Prepare engagement letters and closing letters. 

• Maintain confidentiality of all firm and client information. 

• Assist with office projects and workflow assigned. 

Qualifications 

• Prior experience as a Litigation Paralegal (trust/estate litigation strongly preferred)  

• Associate or bachelor's Degree preferred. 

• Paralegal Certificate from an accredited program 

• Florida Registered Paralegal (FRP) designation  

• 5-10 years of legal experience preferred. 

• Strong knowledge of Florida court procedures. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Strong organizational and time-management skills. 

• Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines. 

• High level of professionalism and discretion. 

Required Skills 

• Microsoft Office Suite 

• Adobe Acrobat 

• Legal case management software 

• Document management systems 

• Electronic court filing 

• Legal research databases 

• Excellent proofreading skills 

• Strong attention to detail 

• Ability to work independently while maintaining attorney supervision 

Physical Requirements 

• Prolonged sitting and computer use. 

• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds. 

• Ability to move files and office materials. 

• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and electronically. 

Work Environment 

This position is performed in a professional law office environment with frequent interaction with attorneys, clients, courts, vendors, and opposing counsel. 

Performance Expectations 

Employees are expected to: 

• Maintain strict confidentiality. 

• Meet deadlines consistently. 

• Demonstrate professionalism and integrity. 

• Provide exceptional client service. 

• Maintain accurate records. 

• Follow firm policies and procedures. 

• Work collaboratively with attorneys and staff. 

Compliance Statement 

The Paralegal performs substantive legal work under the supervision of a licensed attorney. Nothing in this job description authorizes the Paralegal to engage in the practice of law. The Paralegal shall not: 

• Provide legal advice. 

• Represent clients in court unless otherwise authorized by law. 

• Establish attorney-client relationships. 

• Set legal fees. 

• Sign pleadings on behalf of an attorney. 

• Perform any act constituting the unauthorized practice of law under Florida law. 

Disclaimer 

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties may be modified or assigned by the Firm at any time based on business needs.