Legal Secretary Job Description Template:
Our law firm is seeking a professional legal secretary to oversee a range of administrative and secretarial tasks. As the legal secretary, your principal goal is to support attorneys by performing a range of clerical duties including attending court proceedings, researching case information, scheduling meetings, and filing legal documents.
In addition to being an excellent written and verbal communicator, the ideal candidate will be polite and professional. To be successful in this role, you should possess an in-depth knowledge of legal procedures and terminology.
Responsibilities:
- Provide secretarial support to one or more lawyers at the firm.
- Edit and proofread all legal documents.
- Maintain attorney calendar by scheduling conferences, depositions, and meetings.
- Welcome clients and conduct initial screenings of new clients.
- Go to court proceedings and type minutes.
- Organize all legal documents and ensure they are updated.
- Ensure all court documents are in order and filed before deadlines.
- Answer emails and phone calls, and when necessary, redirect calls.
- Research and authenticate important case information.
- Prepare different legal documents including appeals, motions, and petitions.
Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent qualification required.
- Associate degree in legal studies or related field.
- A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar role.
- In-depth knowledge of legal documents and terminology.
- Skilled with MS Office.
- Excellent time-management and organizational skills.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
FAQ's
A legal secretary is also commonly known as a “legal assistant.” The terms “legal secretary” and “legal assistant” are often used interchangeably, although the specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the law firm’s practices. In some regions, the terms may have distinct meanings, but in general, both roles involve providing administrative and clerical support within a legal environment.
Duties of a secretary include providing administrative support, managing correspondence, scheduling appointments, preparing documents, organizing records, handling reception duties, managing office supplies, assisting with event planning, and ensuring confidentiality. The role involves a mix of administrative tasks, communication, and organization to support smooth daily operations.
Qualifications for a legal secretary typically include a bachelor in LAW or high school diploma in LAW , knowledge of legal terminology and procedures, administrative skills, proficiency in legal software, strong communication and research skills, attention to detail, confidentiality, and the ability to work in a fast-paced legal environment. Additional education in legal studies or relevant certifications may be preferred. Experience in legal document drafting and familiarity with court procedures are also valuable qualifications.