Experienced Paralegal

At Rickard & Associates, our team of seasoned, trial-tested attorneys approaches each matter with a personal commitment to client service and advocacy. Established in 2000, Rickard & Associates is focused on providing practical, intelligent advice, while solving your specific business or personal issues and adding real value to your organization. We understand that one-size-fits-all is not the right approach when it comes to your legal needs. Each matter receives a thorough analysis to determine the appropriate course of action to accomplish your specific objective. Our team of dedicated attorneys and legal assistants combine hands-on business experience with cutting-edge legal knowledge to offer sensible and definitive solutions with a bottom-line focus. Rickard & Associates is seeking a full-time experienced Paralegal with a litigation/estate planning background to join our team. Position is full-time and is an in-office position. We value collaboration, training, and in-person teamwork.

Applicants should be able to make significant contributions to our team in the following areas:

• Client Interaction and Service. Maintain proactive communication with clients, gather necessary information and documents, provide updates on case progress, addressing questions and concerns promptly, and ensuring a high level of client satisfaction throughout the legal process.
• Drafting and Proofreading. Assist attorneys in drafting and proofreading legal documents, including pleadings, summonses, motions, subpoenas, initial disclosures, discovery and discovery responses, witness / exhibit lists, case summaries, correspondence, and other litigation and trial documents, ensuring all content is accurate, clear, and compliant with legal standards and firm protocols before submission or distribution.
• Deadline Management. Monitor and manage deadlines for case filings, court appearances, and other critical tasks, ensuring all documents and actions are completed on time and in accordance with legal and procedural requirements to prevent delays and maintain case momentum.
• Multi-Tasking and Problem Solving. Utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills to manage multiple tasks efficiently, prioritize workload effectively, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment, ensuring all responsibilities are completed accurately and on time.
• Managing and Facilitating Effective Communication. Handle all incoming and outgoing mail, email, faxes, and phone calls promptly, ensuring accurate record-keeping. Coordinate with clients, attorneys, medical professionals, and court personnel to ensure clear, timely, and accurate exchange of information, addressing inquiries and resolving issues to support efficient case management.
• Scheduling and Coordination. Coordinate and schedule appointments, depositions, court appearances, and other meetings, ensuring all parties are informed and prepared, and managing any changes or conflicts promptly.
• Knowledge of Michigan Rules of Civil Procedure. Apply a comprehensive understanding of the Michigan Rules of Civil Procedure to ensure accurate preparation, filing, and management of legal documents and proceedings, and provide informed support to attorneys in adhering to procedural requirements.
• Case File Management and Litigation Support. Manage and maintain case files and databases, ensuring that all documents are meticulously organized, accurately updated, and easily accessible. Provide comprehensive support throughout the litigation process by organizing exhibits, assisting with evidence presentation, and ensuring all case-related documents and materials are properly managed and readily available to support attorneys during trial proceedings.
• Administrative Support. Perform general administrative tasks such as photocopying, faxing, filing, and managing office supplies, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of daily office activities and supporting overall team productivity.
• Other. Assist attorneys with other tasks as necessary.
• Qualifications:
• Associate’s degree or higher in Legal Studies, Paralegal Studies, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of legal terminology, court procedures, and Michigan state laws.
• Proficiency in legal research tools and case management software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of professionalism and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Paralegal experience in estate planning law or related fields such as family law, probate law, or trust administration is required.
• Proven knowledge of estate planning practices.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
• Excellent writing skills for drafting legal documents and correspondence; ability to proofread meticulously.
• Experience in legal administrative tasks such as data entry, filing systems management (digital and paper), transcription services, and clerical support within a busy law office environment.
• Effective communication skills coupled with professional phone etiquette; ability to interview clients effectively for estate planning purposes.

Compensation is appropriate with qualifications and experience. Benefits provided.

Please send your resume to: info@larlegal.com

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person