Legal Assistant

At Smith Freed Eberhard, we do more than just practice law – we set new standards in legal excellence. Specializing in civil defense work, our Seattle office is on the lookout for an experienced Legal Assistant. In this role, you will provide crucial support to your team of Attorneys and Paralegals in all aspects of the litigation process.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and organize case files, including electronic documents and physical files.
• Draft and proofread legal documents such as pleadings, discovery requests, and responses.
• Assist Attorneys in preparing for hearings, depositions, and trials by organizing exhibits, scheduling witnesses, and coordinating logistics, including travel arrangements.
• Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel in a professional manner.
• Manage calendars and schedules for court appearances, deadlines, and meetings.
• Handle administrative tasks such as answering phones, updating contacts in software and in Outlook, scheduling appointments, and managing correspondence.
• Stay updated on relevant legal developments, court rules, and procedures.
• Provide general administrative support to the legal team as needed.
• Provide excellent client service.
• Accurately file court documents both electronically and in document form with the ability to determine and follow any local or judge specific requirements related to same. Occasional work on Federal Court cases may be required.
• Anticipate the needs of assigned Attorneys to promote timekeeper efficiencies (i.e., draft correspondence, prepare shell pleading and discovery documents in advance).
• Maintain attorney specific case lists, charts, status of cases and outcomes, as well as update relevant case details in software.
• Juggle multiple assignments and/or deadlines while maintaining a professional demeanor and seek timely assistance when necessary.
• Exhibit sound judgment and organizational skills to receive, record and disseminate all information on behalf of the clients and assigned attorneys (e.g., mail, interoffice mail, email, etc.)
• Proactively review and ensure accuracy of vendor invoices; prepare accurate check requests and timely submission of invoices for payment to client or internal accounting.
• Knowledge of client-specific billing and general guidelines and restrictions and consistently apply those guidelines to ensure cost-effective practices.

• A minimum of three years’ experience as a legal assistant.
• Working knowledge of litigation process and experience with court and agency rules including filing requirements, and experience e-filing in applicable counties.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work efficiently under strict deadlines.
• Discretion and professionalism when handling confidential information.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines.

Compensation and Benefits

• $28 - $30/hour – depending on experience
• Bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits package includes Employer paid Health, Dental, Life and Vision Insurance; and voluntary FSA, STD, LTD, Additional Life Insurance, 401k (with Employer matching), and Pet Insurance.
• Mass transit and parking reimbursement assistance 
• Remote working opportunities
• Casual office

Our Culture

People are our greatest asset at Smith Freed Eberhard! We foster a work environment that prioritizes meaningful contributions. Collaboration among Partners, Associates, Paralegals, and Staff is integral to delivering exceptional service to our clients. Embracing a casual work atmosphere, we prioritize getting the job done over formalities.

Smith Freed Eberhard is a tier one litigation defense firm that specializes in multiple practice areas. Attorneys at the firm are consistently recognized by Martindale Hubbell, Best Lawyers, and Super Lawyers as being top-ranked trial lawyers. To find out more information about the firm, please visit our website at www.smithfreed.com. Come be a part of our dynamic legal team and play a pivotal role in securing positive outcomes for our client in litigation cases. Your contribution will be key to our success!

Smith Freed Eberhard is committed to fostering diversity in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, military service obligations, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.