Legal Secretary Job Description

The legal secretary job description records the core tasks, activities and responsibilities associated with the legal secretary position.

Legal secretaries are employed in law offices, financial companies and government offices. The position may vary from office to office but the key duties of a legal secretary remain standard.

LEGAL SECRETARY JOB DESCRIPTION

General Purpose

Provide secretarial and administrative support to legal professionals

Main Job Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities

prepare and manage correspondence
prepare and process standard legal documents including subpoenas, contracts, summonses, appeals, warrants and motions
organize and coordinate legal meetings including client interviews, hearings and depositions
maintain schedules and calendars including court diaries
take, type and distribute minutes of meetings and interviews
prepare forms including accident reports, courtroom requests and client applications
proofread and edit legal documents
set up and maintain databases and files
document and maintain case details
handle incoming mail and calls
communicate verbally and in writing to answer inquiries and provide information
organize delivery of legal correspondence to clients, witnesses and court officials
conduct research and collate information relevant to cases
arrange hearing dates
file motions
follow up on pending court cases
maintain law libraries
assist with billing
implement and maintain office systems

Education and Experience

relevant training or qualification
knowledge and experience of relevant software applications
processing, presentations and database management
working knowledge of legal procedures and legal terminology
knowledge of local, state and federal filing rules
proficient in spelling, punctuation, grammar and other English language skills
knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures
transcription and typing skills

Key Skills and Competencies

verbal and written communication skills
attention to detail
confidentiality
planning and organizing
information management
integrity
judgment and decision-making
customer-service orientation
initiative
reliability
stress tolerance

Legal secretary resume and cover letter

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Legal secretary key skills

Employers have identified the following key skills for a successful legal secretary:

Attention to detail and accuracy to produce error-free, quality documentation
sound computer skills including good typing speed and proficiency in a variety of computer applications
organizational skills including efficient prioritizing, scheduling, multi-tasking and time management to meet deadlines
verbal and written communication skills - the ability to express oneself clearly and concisely and strong writing skills including good grammar, spelling and language skills
excellent research, data collection and data management skills

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