Legal Assistant Salary

A legal assistant works with attorneys to help them with their casework. Attention to detail is necessary. The assistant will research legal precedents and investigate facts of cases to determine appropriate causes of action and help prepare cases for settlement or litigation. A strong command of the English language and legal terminology are required, as the legal assistant will prepare legal documents such as affidavits, briefs, pleadings, appeals, wills, contracts, real estate closing documents, and client communication. The assistant will also maintain document files and file pleadings with the clerk of court, so an applicant must have a working knowledge of the court system. The job includes gathering research data to analyze for attorney use, such as statutes, previous court decisions, legal articles, legal codes, and other necessary documents. A legal assistant will also call on witnesses to testify at court hearings and arbitration or moderation sessions. The position also requires that the employee direct and coordinate activity for the law office, including the delivery of subpoenas and the review of incoming documents. The assistant is expected to maintain a professional demeanor in dealing with clients of the law firm and court personnel as well as coworkers, and is expected to be able to meet strict deadlines. A legal assistant must be able to work under pressure and produce reliable results, as their work is the foundation of the attorneys’ cases. While the position has standard office hours Monday through Friday, it is expected that there will be additional work as necessary to meet deadlines.

Legal Assistant Tasks