LEGAL ASSISTANT I

$43,450 - $43,450/Yr

Henry County - McDonough, GA

Full-time - Entry Level

McDonough, GA

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The purpose of this position is to conduct legal and investigative research, assist attorneys with trial preparation and court proceedings, and provide specialized legal administrative support as assigned. The Legal Assistant I will be responsible for a variety of tasks that are essential to the legal process, including conducting preliminary investigations, reviewing complaints and pleadings, and determining appropriate jurisdiction. This role requires a thorough understanding of legal procedures and the ability to gather and evaluate initial facts and documents. The Legal Assistant will also be involved in interviewing clients and maintaining all related documentation to ensure that all necessary information is available for legal proceedings. In addition to preliminary investigations, the Legal Assistant will conduct discovery investigations, which involve determining and interviewing witnesses, drafting and reviewing interrogatories, and coordinating the collection and review of client files. This position requires the ability to draft responses to discovery requests and locate expert witnesses as needed. The Legal Assistant will also manage document production, ensuring that all documents are reviewed for privilege and organized appropriately for litigation support. This includes following up on outstanding discovery requests and preparing chronologies of events. The role also involves coordinating depositions, which includes scheduling with clients and opposing counsel, drafting notices and subpoenas, and assisting with witness preparation. The Legal Assistant will draft and respond to formal motions and briefs, performing necessary research and compiling information for these documents. Participation in trial preparation is a key aspect of this position, where the Legal Assistant will prepare trial notebooks, coordinate the appearance of expert witnesses, and manage evidence and equipment during trial proceedings. Maintaining documents, forms, files, and checklists is essential, as is keeping up to date with current court rules and maintaining a litigation docket. The Legal Assistant will process various documentation associated with department operations, ensuring that all tasks are completed within designated timeframes. This position requires effective communication with supervisors, court officials, clients, and other stakeholders to coordinate work activities and resolve any issues that may arise. The Legal Assistant I will also perform other related duties as assigned, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the legal team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct preliminary investigations and review complaints and pleadings.
• Conduct research to determine appropriate jurisdiction and review rules of procedure and calendar deadlines.
• Gather and evaluate initial facts and documents, and interview clients.
• Conduct discovery investigations, determine and interview witnesses, and draft/review interrogatories and requests for production of documents.
• Manage document production, including obtaining and reviewing documents and conferring with attorneys on privilege.
• Coordinate depositions, including scheduling, drafting notices, and assisting with witness preparation.
• Draft and respond to formal motions and briefs, performing necessary research and compiling information.
• Participate in trial preparation and execution, preparing trial notebooks and coordinating expert witnesses.
• Maintain documents, forms, files, and knowledge of current court rules, and maintain litigation docket.
• Process a variety of documentation associated with department operations and maintain computerized/hardcopy records.
• Communicate with supervisors, court officials, clients, attorneys, and other individuals to coordinate work activities.

Requirements

• Associate's Degree in Paralegal Studies, Criminal Justice, or related field.
• Two (2) years of related experience as a paralegal, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Valid Georgia driver's license.
• Paralegal and Notary Public certifications.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of local government operations and judicial/legal programs.
• Skill in effective communication, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evening meetings.
• Ability to deal with confidential and sensitive matters.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Professional development opportunities.