Legal Assistant

Legal Assistant/ – Trust and Estates Practice Group

Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith P.C. is seeking a talented and experienced Legal Assistant to join our Trust and Estates practice group in our Southfield office. This is a full-time opportunity for a skilled legal support professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and excels at meeting the demands of a busy team.

This position plays a critical role in providing administrative support to attorneys and paralegals, producing work that is polished, error-free, and timely. You will manage a variety of responsibilities, including client communication, document preparation, billing, and file maintenance, all while leveraging advanced legal technology. Experience as a legal assistant is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Document Preparation: Draft, update, proofread, and format letters, legal documents, agendas, and binders for client delivery or internal use
• Deadline Management: Track and communicate key dates to attorneys, ensuring timely task completion
• File Maintenance: Maintain organized and professional client files and case records, making information easily accessible
• Technology Utilization: Work effectively with firm systems, including the document management system, Office 365, Adobe Acrobat, and time/billing software
• Client & Case Management: Open new client matters, coordinate conflict checks, and ensure proper closure of matters following firm protocols
• Administrative Duties: Manage attorney calendars, schedule appointments, draft routine correspondence, process incoming mail, and handle electronic filing
• Team Collaboration: Provide support to other legal assistants and perform additional administrative tasks as needed
• Communication: Demonstrate effective and professional communication skills - both verbal and written when interacting with clients, attorneys, and colleagues

Why Join Foster Swift?

At Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, we prioritize our employees' well-being and professional growth. We offer:

• Comprehensive Benefits: Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance, company-paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, and a 401(k) plan
• Additional Perks: Flexible voluntary benefit options to address your personal needs
• Professional Environment: Work with a collaborative and supportive team dedicated to delivering legal excellence and outstanding client service

With over 100 years of history, Foster Swift serves businesses, municipalities, families, and individuals across Michigan, the nation, and beyond. Our conveniently located offices in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Southfield, and Holland allow us to provide unmatched legal expertise.

Commitment to Diversity

Foster Swift is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other status protected by applicable laws.

Apply Today Join our team and become part of a legacy of excellence. If you meet the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, we encourage you to apply now!

Requirements

• Education: High school diploma required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred
• Experience: Minimum of two years experience in a law firm or in-house legal department is required
• Skills:
  • Solid understanding of grammar
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word – formatting, table of contents, styles, etc. Experience with other Microsoft software (Excel, Visio, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams) preferred
  • Willingness and demonstrated ability to enhance technical skills
  • Strong proofreading and editing abilities
  • Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Effective communication (oral and written) and time management skills
  • Flexibility and willingness to adapt to needs of clients, attorneys, and paralegals
• Professionalism: Must maintain confidentiality, demonstrate reliability, and provide excellent client service
• Teamwork: Ability to interact effectively with attorneys, clients, and staff
• Prioritization: Effectively manage and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced legal environment to ensure timely and accurate completion of assignments