Criminal Defense Legal Assistant / Paralegal

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Legal Assistant/Paralegal to support a busy criminal defense practice. This role requires a highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive professional who can effectively manage multiple tasks, prioritize competing deadlines, and case administration in a fast-paced litigation environment. The ideal candidate is diligent, reliable, able to work both independently and collaboratively, and committed to criminal defense work.

Key Responsibilities

• Communicate with clients, courts, and third parties; provide updates and gather intake information
• Manage and maintain attorney calendars, including hearings, deadlines, and client appointments
• Create, maintain, and organize physical and electronic case files
• Oversee discovery: request, organize, review, and distribute materials to attorneys and clients
• Assist in trial preparation, including trial binders, exhibits, witness materials, and case summaries
• Monitor deadlines, follow up on pending matters, and ensure timely completion of tasks
• Collaborate with attorneys and staff to prioritize workload and meet case demands
• Perform general administrative duties and special projects as needed
• Occasional travel to local courthouses

Qualifications

• Prior experience as a legal assistant or paralegal (criminal law preferred)
• Experience managing discovery and litigation support tasks
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and case management software
• Familiarity with eDiscovery tools preferred
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a high-volume caseload
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow through on tasks
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) required