SUMMARY
The Pre-Litigation Paralegal supports attorneys in handling legal cases during the pre-litigation phase, focusing on resolving matters before they proceed to court. This role involves case management, client communication, document preparation, and coordination with various parties to facilitate settlements. The Pre-Litigation Paralegal is responsible for ensuring that all necessary documentation and information are gathered, organized, and ready for negotiation, settlement discussions, or, if necessary, litigation.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Case Management:
- Manage a caseload of pre-litigation cases, ensuring all tasks are completed in a timely manner.
- Maintain organized and up-to-date case files, including electronic records in the case management system.
- Track and manage important dates, deadlines, and statutes of limitations to ensure all actions are completed on time.
Client Communication:
- Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during the pre-litigation phase, providing updates and answering questions about their case.
- Conduct client interviews to gather detailed information about the incident, injuries, and other relevant details.
- Ensure clients are informed about the pre-litigation process and what to expect during negotiations.
Document Preparation and Management:
- Prepare and draft legal documents, including demand letters, settlement agreements, and correspondence with insurance companies and other parties.
- Gather, organize, and analyze medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and other evidence to support the claim.
- Assist attorneys in preparing case summaries, chronologies, and other documents necessary for settlement negotiations.
Negotiation Support:
- Assist attorneys in preparing for settlement negotiations by organizing and presenting evidence, drafting demand letters, and evaluating settlement offers.
- Communicate with insurance adjusters and opposing counsel to facilitate negotiations and settlement discussions.
- Ensure that all settlement agreements are properly documented and executed.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering:
- Conduct investigations to gather facts and evidence related to the case, including interviewing witnesses, obtaining police reports, and collecting photographic evidence.
- Coordinate with medical providers to obtain medical records, treatment summaries, and other documentation related to the client's injuries.
- Analyze evidence to identify strengths and weaknesses in the case and assist attorneys in developing a negotiation strategy.
Insurance Coordination:
- Communicate with insurance companies to manage claims, verify coverage, and negotiate settlements.
- Prepare and submit insurance claims, ensuring all necessary documentation is included.
- Follow up with insurance companies to monitor the status of claims and ensure timely resolution.
Settlement Processing:
- Assist in drafting and reviewing settlement agreements to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal requirements.
- Coordinate the disbursement of settlement funds, ensuring all parties receive their payments in accordance with the settlement agreement.
- Manage the closure of cases, including the resolution of any outstanding issues or liens.
Administrative Support:
- Assist attorneys with administrative tasks related to pre-litigation cases, such as scheduling meetings, managing calendars, and coordinating with clients and other parties.
- Maintain accurate billing and time-keeping records for pre-litigation activities.
- Provide general support to attorneys and other legal staff as needed.
Compliance and Confidentiality:
· Maintain confidentiality of all client and case information.
· Ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
Education: Associate’s or Bachelor's degree in Paralegal Studies. Paralegal certification from an ABA-approved program preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience as a paralegal, preferably in personal injury, insurance, or civil litigation. Experience in pre-litigation case management is highly desirable.
Skills:
- Strong knowledge of legal terminology, processes, and procedures related to pre-litigation.
- Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients, attorneys, insurance adjusters, and other parties.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines simultaneously. Proficient in legal research tools (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis) and eDiscovery platforms.
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to handle high-pressure situations and tight deadlines.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and legal document management systems.
- Fast learner with a strong personal drive/motivation for continual improvement
- Able to work independently while also thriving in a team-based environment
- Ability to communicate effectively and build strong working relationships at multiple levels across the organization
- Thrive in a fast-paced environment; ability to multi-task and balance multiple, competing priorities, yet balance energy and drive with sensitivity and compassion
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as policy and procedure manuals. Ability to write complex legal reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before diverse groups.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Monday to Friday
Experience:
- Paralegal: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Holland, OH 43528 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Holland, OH 43528: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
