Docketing Clerk

USA Alston & Bird; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

USA Alston & Bird in Los Angeles is looking for a Docketing Clerk to support attorneys in managing litigation deadlines and court requirements. This critical role ensures accuracy and effective coordination in a fast-paced legal environment.

The ideal candidate will possess 5+ years of legal experience and proficiency in docketing systems. The position offers a competitive salary range of $65,000 - $85,000 based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of legal experience preferred.
• Experience with electronic filing platforms like NYSCEF, PACER.
• Strong understanding of court rules and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Manage California court calendaring and deadline computations.
• Prepare docket calendar events for attorneys.
• Respond to court-related inquiries.

Skills

Proficiency with docketing systems

Excellent communication skills

Hands-on experience with court systems

Understanding of litigation processes

Attention to detail

Ability to work independently

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Milana

CompuLaw

CourtAlert

Job description

Job Overview

As a Docketing Clerk, you’ll play a critical role in supporting attorneys and case teams across all stages of the litigation lifecycle. You’ll be the trusted steward of deadlines, filings, and court‑driven requirements, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and flawless coordination in a fast‑paced legal environment. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on detail, enjoys solving procedural puzzles, and wants to contribute centrally to high‑impact litigation work.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the go‑to expert for all California court calendaring and deadline computations, managing and maintaining the firm’s litigation docket with precision.
• Coordinate and prepare docket calendar events for attorneys and legal assistants, ensuring every detail is captured and communicated.
• Respond to court‑related inquiries from attorneys, paralegals, and staff with confidence and clarity.
• Review and process incoming litigation documents via electronic delivery, overnight courier, or hand delivery, calculating deadlines and updating the docketing database accurately.
• Generate clear, actionable reports outlining upcoming deadlines and required tasks.
• Proactively advise attorneys on docket‑related issues and assist with clearing or de‑docketing items.
• Research Federal, State, Appellate, and Local Court Rules, along with Judge‑specific procedures, to ensure absolute compliance.
• Participate in firm‑wide initiatives to enhance calendaring procedures, workflows, and departmental standards.
• Develop deep expertise in filing practices to confidently resolve filing questions and ensure every submission meets court requirements.
• Communicate directly with courts and administrative offices to verify rules, procedures, and filing expectations.
• Manage all aspects of court services, including electronic and paper filings, rule updates, and coordination with attorney service providers.
• Partner with litigation teams ahead of filings confirming cite‑checks, reviewing documents for rule compliance, and handling filing and service logistics.
• Maintain and manage California attorney filing credentials, including setting up and troubleshooting court admission accounts.

Skills & Qualifications

• Proficiency with docketing systems such as Milana, CompuLaw, or CourtAlert.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with a collaborative mindset.
• Hands‑on experience with Federal, State, and Local court systems and electronic filing platforms (NYSCEF, PACER, First Legal, One Legal, TrueFiling, etc.).
• Strong understanding of litigation processes, legal terminology, court procedures, and docket management.
• Reputation for accuracy, integrity, and delivering timely information.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organization, and the ability to juggle competing deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while remaining a reliable partner to attorneys and legal teams.
• Good judgment, professionalism, and a solutions‑oriented approach.

Education & Experience

5+ years of legal experience preferred. Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Salary range in CA: $65,000 - $85,000. Compensation will depend on factors such as experience, qualifications, and location.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Alston & Bird LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the bases of any status protected under federal, state, or local law. Applicants will be considered regardless of sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, HIV/AIDS status, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, and other protected categories.

Professional business references and a background screening will be required for all final applicants selected for a position. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact [e-mail].