What are the responsibilities and job description for the Legal Receptionist position at Law Office of Lisa S. Fine, P.C.?
About the Firm
We are a premier, fast-paced boutique divorce and family law firm in Suffolk County led by a seasoned attorney and former President of the Suffolk County Women’s Bar Association. We deliver sharp litigation and mediation services, leveraging cutting-edge technology to achieve high-stakes results. We operate with a "small but mighty" mindset and maintain a highly focused, professional environment.
Position Overview
We are seeking an exceptionally sharp, high-performing Legal Assistant / Executive Assistant who will serve as the primary gatekeeper and face of our firm.
This is a dynamic role that goes well beyond traditional administrative responsibilities. The ideal candidate is confident, resilient, and able to navigate challenging conversations with professionalism and tact. Success in this position requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, the ability to de-escalate difficult situations, and the confidence to establish appropriate boundaries while ensuring the attorney's time is managed effectively.
Key Responsibilities:
Gatekeeping & Client Relations
- Command the Phones: Manage all incoming calls with high efficiency; maintain absolute call control and prevent callers from dominating or derailing conversations.
- Firm Gatekeeping: Screen inquiries rigorously to protect the attorney’s calendar from unauthorized or low-priority interruptions.
- De-escalate Conflict: Calmly and professionally handle rude, emotional, or high-conflict clients while maintaining a polite yet unyielding demeanor.
- Calendar Management: Schedule consultations, court appearances, and deadlines, ensuring no overlapping conflicts.
Legal & Administrative Support
- Case Management: Assist with client intake, onboarding, and maintaining meticulous physical and digital files.
- Document Preparation: Draft and format formal correspondence, memos, and basic legal documents under attorney supervision.
- Court Filings: Assist with New York State court filings, including electronic filing (E-file tracking).
- Office Operations: Handle mail distribution, scanning, copying, vendor coordination, and office supply inventory management.
- Tech & Workflows: Utilize legal practice management software to update client records, log case notes, and support billing/invoicing processes.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Minimum 2 years of experience as a Legal Assistant, Legal Secretary, or high-level Executive Assistant (Family Law experience is a major plus).
- Proven Call Control: Demonstrated ability to manage difficult conversations, enforce boundaries, and handle high-stress client interactions.
- Tech-Savvy: Proficiency with legal practice management software, digital workflows, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Knowledge of NY Courts: Familiarity with Suffolk County court procedures and New York e-filing is highly preferred.
- Unwavering Discretion: Ability to maintain absolute confidentiality and uphold strict ethical legal standards.
- Resilience: Strong emotional intelligence, thick skin, and a direct, solution-oriented communication style.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- A technologically advanced, efficient work environment.
- Direct mentorship from a highly respected leader in the New York family law community.
How to Apply
Submit your resume along with a brief cover letter detailing a specific instance where you successfully handled a difficult client or maintained strict boundaries in a professional setting.