Paralegal - Banking

Skadden Arps - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Mid Level

Chicago, IL

About the position

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP (Skadden) is seeking a mid-level Paralegal in the Banking Practice Area. This position is integral to providing comprehensive administrative and deal support to attorneys and other professional staff within the department. The role involves managing complex tasks and projects with limited supervision throughout all phases of Banking Practice Area work. The paralegal will be responsible for organizing and managing both electronic and paper files, assisting in the preparation of Banking-specific materials, and handling various tasks such as due diligence, UCC lien searches and filings, drafting closing documents, and maintaining electronic closing rooms. Additionally, the paralegal will review and coordinate the delivery of possessory collateral, prepare closing sets for transactional closings, and assist with internal initiatives specific to the Banking Practice Area. The position requires the paralegal to perform non-legal research using various tools, including the Internet, Westlaw, LexisNexis, and PACER, ensuring that all files are maintained according to department-approved protocols. The paralegal will also be expected to demonstrate effective interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills to facilitate productive work relationships. Regular in-office presence is required, and the role may involve handling sensitive matters while maintaining confidentiality. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, the ability to prioritize multiple projects, and the flexibility to adjust hours as necessary to meet business needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide diversified administrative and deal support to attorneys and department members.
• Handle complex projects with limited supervision throughout all phases of Banking Practice Area work.
• Organize and manage electronic and paper files.
• Assist with the preparation of Banking Practice Area specific materials.
• Conduct due diligence and handle UCC lien searches and filings.
• Draft and update closing agendas, documents, and signature pages.
• Compile executed documents for closings and maintain electronic closing rooms.
• Review and coordinate delivery of possessory collateral.
• Prepare closing sets for transactional closings.
• Assist with Banking Practice Area specific internal initiatives.
• Perform cross-reference and defined terms checks as needed.
• Utilize DocuSign to obtain electronic signatures as needed.
• Serve as a Banking Practice Area specific resource and provide guidance to attorneys and support staff.
• Perform non-legal research using various research tools.
• Ensure all files are maintained within department-approved protocols and case management systems.
• Seek to improve workflow regarding storage and recall of materials.
• Maintain the integrity of client files and comply with Firm operation policies and procedures.
• Manage Firm resources responsibly.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree.
• Minimum of three years' experience in a legal assistant position or a similar role requiring comparable skills and expertise.
• In-depth understanding of transactional specific concepts and procedures, preferably Banking-specific.
• Knowledge of relevant firm computer software programs (e.g., Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint) with the ability to learn new software and operating systems.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and planning skills.
• Strong research skills and proficiency in using various research tools, including the Internet, Westlaw, LexisNexis, PACER, SEC/EDGAR, and other court-related websites.
• Ability to work well independently and effectively within a team.
• Ability to handle sensitive matters and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work and handle multiple projects and shifting priorities.
• Ability to work well in a demanding and fast-paced environment under pressure.
• Demonstrates close attention to detail.

Nice-to-haves

• Flexibility to travel as required.
• Flexibility to adjust hours to meet operating and business needs.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries and year-end discretionary bonuses.
• Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision).
• Savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.
• Generous paid time off.
• Paid leave options, including parental leave.
• In-classroom, remote, and on-demand learning and professional development opportunities.
• Robust well-being classes and programs.
• Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.