Litigation Paralegal Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the complex world of legal proceedings, the role of litigation paralegals has become increasingly crucial.

As legal battles become more intricate, the demand for adept professionals who can navigate, manage, and protect our legal processes intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a litigation paralegal?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the description for the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the inner workings of litigation paralegal work,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable litigation paralegal job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Litigation Paralegal Duties and Responsibilities

Litigation Paralegals assist attorneys in all phases of the litigation process, often specializing in a specific area, like personal injury, criminal defense, civil rights or corporate law.

Their tasks can range from research to drafting documents to interviewing witnesses.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the investigation of facts and evidence related to a case
• Conducting legal research and analyze laws, regulations, and legal articles to assist in the preparation of reports, legal arguments, and case strategies
• Drafting legal documents such as pleadings, briefs, motions, affidavits, and subpoenas
• Organizing and managing files, documents, and exhibits
• Assisting with discovery, including the collection, review, and production of documents, and coordinating with other parties
• Preparing for trial by creating exhibits, assisting with witness preparation, and attending trial as support for attorneys
• Filing documents electronically with the court
• Monitoring and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations and legal procedures
• Communicating with clients, witnesses, court personnel, and other attorneys

 

Litigation Paralegal Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a highly competent Litigation Paralegal to join our legal team.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in managing all phases of the litigation process, from initiation to discovery, through trial.

As a Litigation Paralegal, your responsibilities will include drafting legal documents, researching legal matters, and assisting attorneys in preparing for hearings, depositions, and trials.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist with the drafting and reviewing of legal documents
• Investigate facts to help in the negotiation of legal disputes
• Monitor and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations
• Conduct extensive legal research and compile information in a meaningful way
• Prepare and manage trial exhibits and evidences
• Record and store client information
• Facilitate the meeting of attorney’s deadlines by keeping organized schedules and providing timely reminders
• Coordinate the delivery of subpoenas and assist with the execution of witness and expert depositions

 

Qualifications

• Proven working experience as a Litigation Paralegal
• Applicable knowledge of motions, discovery, evidence, litigation documentation, court rules and procedures, practices etc
• Highly proficient in using legal database software and MS Office
• Working knowledge of legal terminology and principles
• Ability to handle and maintain confidential information
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Paralegal associate degree or other relevant certification

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Litigation Paralegal
• Work Environment: Office setting. Some travel may be required for court appearances and meetings with clients.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Lead Attorney or Legal Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Litigation Paralegal Do?

Litigation Paralegals are legal professionals who assist attorneys in the process of litigation.

They work for law firms, corporations, or government agencies.

They are responsible for managing large amounts of legal documents and data, organizing them in a way that they can be easily accessed and understood by attorneys.

This involves researching the facts of the case, preparing reports, and creating legal documents such as pleadings, motions, and briefs.

Litigation Paralegals also assist in the pre-trial process by interviewing witnesses, preparing deposition summaries, and assisting in discovery.

They may also be responsible for organizing exhibits, documents, and other evidence for use in court.

During the trial, they may assist attorneys by coordinating logistics, taking notes, and handling exhibits.

After the trial, they may also assist with appeals by preparing and filing necessary documents.

In addition, Litigation Paralegals often have client-facing roles, where they communicate with clients to gather information and provide updates on the progress of the case.

They are typically required to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.

Despite working under the direction of attorneys, Litigation Paralegals often manage tasks independently and play an integral role in the success of a case.

 

Litigation Paralegal Qualifications and Skills

A proficient litigation paralegal should have the skills and qualifications that are in line with the job description, such as:

• Strong knowledge of litigation procedures, rules of evidence, and court systems.
• Excellent research skills to gather and analyze statutes, decisions, legal articles, codes and documents.
• Exceptional organizational skills to manage large volumes of case files and exhibit proficiency in document control.
• Ability to draft legal documents such as pleadings, motions, subpoenas, and various legal briefs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to communicate effectively with attorneys, clients, court personnel and other professionals.
• Detail-oriented and skilled in note-taking and minutes recording for legal meetings and court proceedings.
• Excellent time management skills to handle multiple tasks and maintain deadlines.
• Proficiency in legal software and legal research platforms such as Westlaw or LexisNexis.

 

Litigation Paralegal Experience Requirements

Entry-level litigation paralegals are usually fresh graduates from an accredited paralegal program where they gain both theoretical and practical experience in legal procedures and litigation.

Some candidates may also gain experience through an internship in law firms or corporate legal departments.

Candidates with 1 to 2 years of experience may have worked as legal assistants or legal secretaries, where they gained proficiency in legal research, drafting legal documents, and managing case files.

Litigation paralegals with over 3 years of experience typically have a strong understanding of the litigation process, including filing lawsuits, discovery, trial procedures, and post-trial procedures.

They may have honed their skills in managing complex litigation cases, coordinating with attorneys, and assisting in trial preparation.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may be ready for senior roles such as Senior Litigation Paralegal or Litigation Paralegal Supervisor, having developed strong litigation management skills, client interaction experience, and possibly even experience in mentoring or supervising junior paralegals.

Some may also have specialized experience in specific fields of law such as personal injury, family law, or corporate litigation.

 

Litigation Paralegal Education and Training Requirements

Litigation Paralegals typically require an associate’s degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor’s degree in another field, often with a certificate in paralegal studies.

They also need a solid foundation in legal research and writing, as well as a strong understanding of the litigation process, rules of civil procedure, and evidentiary laws.

Some roles might require a Certified Paralegal (CP) or Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) credential, which is offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).

These certifications indicate advanced competencies in the field and can enhance employment prospects.

Litigation Paralegals should also be familiar with legal software and technology, such as case management software and electronic discovery software.

Continuing education is essential for Litigation Paralegals to stay updated on changes in the law and legal technology.

Some employers may also prefer candidates with a few years of experience in a law office or other legal setting.

 

Litigation Paralegal Salary Expectations

A Litigation Paralegal can expect to earn an average of $51,743 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can fluctuate based on the individual’s experience, their level of education, and the location of their employment.

 

Litigation Paralegal Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Litigation Paralegal need?

Litigation Paralegals should have excellent research and analytical skills.

They need to be organized and detail-oriented to manage case files and legal documents efficiently.

Strong writing and communication skills are essential, as they often draft legal documents and correspond with clients and legal professionals.

Proficiency in legal research databases and office software is also necessary.

 

Do Litigation Paralegals need a degree?

Most Litigation Paralegals possess an associate’s degree or certificate in paralegal studies from an accredited institution.

Some may even hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.

While not always required, certification from organizations like the National Association of Legal Assistants can make a candidate more attractive.

 

What should you look for in a Litigation Paralegal resume?

A Litigation Paralegal resume should highlight relevant education, certification, and experience.

They should have experience in handling litigation cases, preparing legal documents, and conducting legal research.

Proficiency in using legal research platforms and office software should also be highlighted.

Any specific experience in the area of law pertaining to your firm is beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Litigation Paralegal?

A good Litigation Paralegal is highly organized, capable of managing multiple case files and deadlines simultaneously.

They have excellent analytical abilities and can quickly understand complex legal matters.

They are detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy in legal documentation and research.

Good Litigation Paralegals also have strong interpersonal skills, enabling them to interact effectively with clients, attorneys, and court personnel.

 

What are the daily duties of a Litigation Paralegal?

Litigation Paralegals typically start their day by reviewing and organizing case files.

They spend a lot of their time conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, and preparing reports for attorneys.

They may also assist attorneys in preparing for trials, depositions, or hearings.

Communicating with clients, witnesses, and court personnel is also a regular part of their daily duties.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed some light on the real role of a litigation paralegal.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about drafting legal documents and doing research.

It’s about shaping the course of justice, one case at a time.

With our handy litigation paralegal job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating tailored job listings or refining your resume to the highest standard.

Remember:

Every legal case contributes to the larger panorama of justice.

Let’s shape that justice. Together.

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