An aggressively growing law firm, based in Orem, Utah, is seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Legal Research Assistant to provide comprehensive research and technical support to our legal team. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting in-depth legal research, drafting complex legal documents, and assisting attorneys in the preparation of cases for litigation.
This role requires a meticulous attention to detail, an ability to synthesize vast amounts of legal information, and a strong understanding of legal principles and procedures. The ideal candidate will exhibit a high degree of professionalism and an aptitude for technical writing within a legal framework.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Advanced Legal Research & Analysis:
- Conduct extensive and targeted legal research utilizing platforms such as Westlaw, LexisNexis, and PACER to identify relevant case law, statutes, legal precedents, and regulations.
- Analyze complex legal issues and distill findings into concise, actionable reports and memoranda for attorney review.
- Monitor ongoing legal developments, including legislative changes and judicial rulings, to provide real-time updates that may impact ongoing cases or the firm’s legal strategy.
2. Drafting and Technical Writing:
- Draft and edit high-level legal documents, including but not limited to pleadings, motions, affidavits, and legal briefs, ensuring clarity, precision, and adherence to court standards.
- Assist attorneys in preparing discovery requests, responses, and deposition summaries, carefully verifying the legal and factual accuracy of all documentation.
- Develop clear and persuasive legal arguments and prepare supporting documentation for various stages of litigation, including pre-trial motions and appellate briefs.
3. Case File Management and Document Control:
- Organize, maintain, and update case files with detailed records of legal proceedings, correspondence, and discovery materials.
- Implement document control procedures, ensuring that all legal files, both digital and physical, are accurately labeled, archived, and easily retrievable.
- Ensure proper filing of legal documents with courts and administrative agencies, meeting strict deadlines and procedural requirements.
4. Case Support & Preparation:
- Assist attorneys with the strategic planning of cases, including gathering and organizing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and summarizing deposition transcripts.
- Support the preparation of legal exhibits, expert witness reports, and trial binders for court submissions, ensuring all documentation is ready for court presentations.
- Maintain ongoing communication with clients, opposing counsel, court personnel, and other relevant parties to track case progress and relay pertinent information to attorneys.
5. Legal Compliance and Confidentiality:
- Ensure that all legal research and case work strictly comply with applicable laws, regulations, and court procedures.
- Handle sensitive information with the highest level of confidentiality, adhering to both ethical and legal standards of the firm.
Qualifications:
Educational Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies, Political Science, Criminal Justice, or a closely related field.
- Paralegal certification or current enrollment in law school is strongly preferred.
Experience:
- Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a legal research or legal assistant role, with a strong emphasis on litigation support, legal documentation, and regulatory compliance.
- Demonstrated proficiency in using legal research platforms, such as Westlaw, LexisNexis, and other legal databases.
Technical & Analytical Skills:
- Expertise in legal research methodologies and an ability to interpret complex legal information.
- Strong technical writing skills, with the ability to draft clear, detailed, and legally sound documents tailored to specific legal requirements.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), as well as legal document management software.
Soft Skills:
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, capable of balancing multiple high-priority tasks simultaneously.
- Exceptional attention to detail, ensuring the accuracy of all legal research and documentation.
- Ability to communicate effectively with attorneys, clients, and external parties in a professional manner.
