About the Firm:
Our client, a boutique Complex Litigation practice and a spinoff of an AM100 law firm, is seeking a Litigation Trial Paralegal to join their exceptional team in their Chicago Loop office. The firm specializes in large-scale, high-stakes litigation involving major product liability, mass tort, intellectual property, antitrust, and other complex commercial disputes. Their clientele includes U.S. and multinational Fortune 500 companies, and their track record of success is built on rigorous collaboration, and unparalleled attention to detail.
Position Summary:
This is a unique opportunity to join an elite team of litigators at a firm that values quality, respect, and high performance. The Litigation Trial Paralegal will play a key role in supporting large-scale litigation, from pre-trial preparation to trial. The position is ideal for a self-starter who thrives in an empowered, collaborative, and flat organizational structure with opportunities for leadership and ownership.
Key Responsibilities:
- Case Management: Lead and manage the litigation support process across all phases of litigation, including case filings, discovery, motions, and trial support.
- Finalizing Legal Briefs: Utilize advanced skills in cite checking (Bluebook), proofreading, creating TOCs and TOAs, and ensuring formatting meets standards.
- Trial Preparation: Support trial teams with in-depth preparation, including document management, exhibit handling, and client communication; must be available for extended travel during trial periods (6-8 weeks).
- Collaboration: Work directly with attorneys, clients, and staff, training entry level team members and delegating tasks effectively during complex cases.
- Client Interaction: Maintain high-quality communication and work products that directly interface with sophisticated clients.
- E-Discovery: Manage the e-discovery process with proficiency in platforms like Relativity or others, while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local rules.
- Research: Conduct detailed research on filing procedures, judge preferences, CMOs/PTOs, and other relevant case information.
Qualifications:
- 2–10 years of litigation experience, including trial experience preferred; proficiency in finalizing legal briefs (e.g., cite checking, proofreading) will be considered as a substitute for trial experience.
- High attention to detail with consistent proofreading and editing accuracy.
- Exceptional organizational skills, including creating effective systems/tools for matter-specific tracking, deadlines, and task lists.
- Proactive communicator who anticipates project needs and demonstrates a “problem-solver” attitude.
- Experience leading litigation teams, managing staff, and mentoring team members.
- Strong analytical and writing skills, with a highly developed ability to craft and review polished, persuasive legal documents.
- Proven ability to handle workflows that may differ from case to case, demonstrating adaptability and flexibility.
- Advanced technical skills, with proficiency in the Office Suite (including Microsoft Word), NetDocuments or similar document management systems, and e-discovery platforms.
- A background in providing training to staff and fostering a team-oriented culture.
- Proficient in multitasking, prioritizing competing deadlines, and operating effectively under pressure.
What We Offer:
- Competitive compensation aligned with industry standards.
- A collaborative and inclusive team environment emphasizing excellence and mutual support.
- The chance to work on high-profile, high-stakes litigation for global clients with a winning team.
- Opportunities for career development, leadership, and taking ownership of projects.
About the Culture:
This firm prides itself on fostering a culture of excellence, respect, and teamwork. While its work often requires extra hours during trial preparation and active trial periods, the firm deeply values and supports its team members. Candidates will find a collaborative environment where they can grow in their career while training and mentoring others.
How to Apply:
If you meet the qualifications above and seek a rewarding, high-impact role in litigation, we'd love to hear from you. Please submit your resume for consideration.