Legal Assistant - Family Law

TAG HR; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A family law practice in Ottawa is seeking a dedicated Legal Assistant to support attorneys with case management and document preparation. The ideal candidate has at least 3 years of legal assistant experience, particularly in family law, and is proficient in various legal software. Responsibilities include managing client interactions, conducting research, and assisting with court filings. This role requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Legal Assistant, preferably in family law.

Responsibilities

• Assist attorneys with case preparation, including drafting legal documents.
• Communicate with clients and schedule meetings.
• Prepare and organize legal documents for court filings.
• File documents with the court and track deadlines.
• Conduct legal research on family law issues.
• Manage the attorney's calendar and appointments.
• Perform general administrative tasks in the office.
• Assist with billing procedures and follow up on payments.
• Schedule and prepare witnesses for depositions and court appearances.
• Assist in preparation for mediations and trials.

Skills

Strong knowledge of family law procedures and terminology

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and legal research software

Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines

High attention to detail

Strong organizational skills

Ability to maintain confidentiality

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate's degree or Paralegal certificate

Tools

DivorceMate

Clio

NexisLexis

eFileCA

Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Legal Assistant to join our family law practice. The ideal candidate will have experience in legal support, specifically in family law, and will assist our attorneys in providing high-quality legal services to our clients. You will be responsible for managing a wide range of administrative and legal tasks, ensuring the efficient operation of the law office, and providing crucial support during all phases of family law cases, including divorce, child custody, and support issues.

Key Responsibilities:

• Case Management: Assist attorneys with case preparation, including drafting pleadings, motions, affidavits, and other legal documents related to family law cases.
• Client Interaction: Communicate with clients, schedule meetings, and maintain regular contact to provide updates on case progress. Handle sensitive and confidential client information with discretion.
• Document Preparation: Prepare and organize legal documents, correspondence, and other materials for court filings. Ensure all documents comply with court rules and deadlines.
• Court Filings: File documents with the court electronically or in person, track filing deadlines, and maintain an organized filing system.
• Research: Conduct legal research on family law issues as needed and summarize findings for attorney review.
• Scheduling: Manage the attorney's calendar, including scheduling client consultations, court appearances, and other appointments.
• Administrative Support: Perform general administrative tasks such as answering phones, managing emails, handling incoming and outgoing mail, and maintaining office supplies.
• Billing: Assist with billing procedures, including timekeeping, invoice preparation, and follow-up on payments.
• Witness Coordination: Schedule and prepare witnesses for depositions and court appearances. Arrange court reporters or interpreters as necessary.
• Mediation and Trial Preparation: Assist in the preparation for mediations and trials, including organizing exhibits, preparing trial binders, and coordinating logistics.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. An Associate's degree or Paralegal certificate is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Legal Assistant, preferably in family law.
• Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of family law procedures and terminology.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and legal research software. (i.e DivorceMate, Clio, NexisLexis, eFileCA)
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive situations with discretion.