Legal Assistant/Paralegal for a Growing Solo Criminal Defense Practice

Job Overview

Are you interested in being an integral part of a solo practice growing into a larger law firm? Are you good at dealing with unpredictable circumstances and being rewarded for your success? At taking on responsibility and being the attorney's right-hand person in a growing Criminal Defense Practice?

If you said yes to any of these questions, keep reading. If not, go to the next job ad.

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Legal Assistant/Paralegal to join our growing criminal defense practice. We are a solo practice scaling up to a larger firm, and this role offers an exciting opportunity to help grow in a fast-paced legal environment, contributing to case preparation, legal research, document management, and client communication. The ideal candidate will possess strong legal administrative skills, experience with criminal defense, immigration and/or personal injury, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently. This position provides valuable experience to learn from an experienced criminal defense attorney, fostering professional growth and giving you an opportunity to grow with us. If you're on board with working with a fast-growing firm, join us. If you just want to punch in and punch out? This job probably isn't for you.

Responsibilities

• Answering calls for current and new clients with professionalism, warmth, and compassion.
• Client intake, which involves gathering detailed information on potential cases and qualifying potential leads.
• Assist the attorney with case and calendar management, including organizing and maintaining legal files using document management systems such as Clio, Google Drive, Westlaw and/or LexisNexis.
• Review discovery materials provided by the District Attorney's Offices to aid in case preparation and identify missing evidence.
• Conduct legal research when appropriate.
• Manage case-related data entry and document review to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Support litigation processes by aiding in hearing and trial preparation.
• Conduct client interviews and assist with client communication under attorney supervision.
• Maintain calendar deadlines for filings, court appearances, and other critical dates.
• Provide administrative support, including phone etiquette, scheduling appointments, managing incoming correspondence, and performing clerical tasks such as filing and transcription.

Requirements

• Bilingual (English/Spanish or English/Mandarin) preferred
• Excellent phone presence with a friendly, professional, and calm demeanor.
• Quick learner who can take initiative and work independently.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Compassionate and respectful
• Paralegal experience or equivalent legal administrative experience is preferred but not necessarily required
• Proficiency with legal research tools such as Westlaw and LexisNexis preferred.
• Experience with case management software, including Clio, and document management, such as Google Drive preferred
• Strong writing skills with the ability to draft clear legal documents and proofread effectively.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to handle multiple responsibilities with professionalism and confidentiality.

Compensation & Benefits

• $22- $40 per hour based on experience and skills.
• Paid training and support from an experienced attorney.
• Opportunity to grow with the firm over the long term.
• A team culture focused on trust, communication, and client care.
• Paid vacation and sick time

To Apply:
Submit your resume along with a brief cover message explaining:

• Why you're interested in this position
• Why you’d be a great fit for a criminal defense law office
• Whether you speak Spanish

We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming the right person to our team!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $22.00 - $40.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Paid sick time
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person