Paralegal

La Follette, Johnson, DeHaas, Fesler & Ames is a statewide civil litigation firm with over 60 years of defense law excellence. Founded by John T. La Follette and Daren T. Johnson, the Firm first began practicing law in Los Angeles in 1965, and specializes in medical malpractice, elder abuse, general liability, employment law and products liability. Since its inception, the Firm has grown into one of California’s largest, most recognized and experienced defense law firms, with multiple offices throughout California.

At La Follette, Johnson, DeHaas, Fesler & Ames, we understand that exceptional team members make the difference for our clients. We provide an environment in which our staff enjoy professional growth, the opportunity to work on meaningful and challenging matters, and excellent benefits.

Position Summary 

The Paralegal performs a broad range of secretarial, administrative, and trial support duties for one or more attorneys. Organizes and maintains all files, calendars/scheduling, and other correspondence relating to litigation and administrative matters under the direct supervision of attorneys.

Essential Duties

• Perform legal and factual research; perform records research
• Identify relevant judicial decisions, statutes, legal articles, codes, and other pertinent material; review and monitor new and updated regulations
• Organize and analyze information; cross-check and validate information
• Prepare written reports and draft legal documents including briefs, appeals, contracts, and legal agreements and correspondence
• Help prepare legal arguments, applications, declarations, and motions
• Check legal forms and documents for accuracy
• Maintain reference files; organize and track case files
• Coordinate law office activities such as subpoena deliveries
• Locate and communicate with witnesses; interact with clients
• Assist the lawyer in the courtroom
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, or certificate program in paralegal studies
• Minimum of three years legal experience, ideally in malpractice defense
• Equivalent combination of education and/or experience considered
• Thorough knowledge of legal principles, legal research techniques, legal terminology, and government regulations
• Excellent legal drafting, writing, and verbal communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills, analytical, and critical thinking skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Ability to operate basic office equipment such as a copy machine, fax machine, printer, scanner, and computer
• Ability to work with databases and on-line technological platforms
• Ability to be detail-oriented, diligent, and flexible
• Ability to handle conflicting time demands and focus on task completion with little direction or need for supervisory follow-up
• Proficient command of the English language in both oral and written format
• Ability to work and maintain patience with diversified individuals of various backgrounds and professional competencies
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in a professional manner

Benefits and Terms

• 401(k) with employer match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

La Follette, Johnson, DeHaas, Fesler & Ames is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs in accordance with applicable laws.