Paralegal - Bankruptcy

Sidley is seeking an experienced Bankruptcy Paralegal to join its national Restructuring practice group. This position will provide critical support in complex Chapter 11 proceedings, out-of-court restructurings, and related litigation. The ideal candidate will be responsive, detail-oriented, and independent, with experience in managing court deadlines and e-filing documents on federal court dockets.

• Proficiency with docketing systems as part of monitoring and tracking critical deadlines, ensuring compliance with all court-mandated schedules.
• Prepare, proofread, and electronically file pleadings, motions, and other court documents in federal bankruptcy courts (CM/ECF system).
• Maintain and update case dockets, calendars, and tracking systems for ongoing matters.
• Understand local rules, practices and procedures and assist attorneys in adherence to same.
• Assist attorneys with the preparation of first-day motions, schedules, and statements required in Chapter 11 filings.
• Manage hearing preparation and support, including arranging appearances and preparing hearing materials.
• Review and analyze creditor claims, objections, and other court filings.
• Organize and maintain case files, exhibits, and hearing binders, both electronically and in hard copy.
• Assist in the preparation and coordination of documents related to debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing, asset sales, and plan confirmation.
• Familiarity with U.S. Trustee fee guidelines and bankruptcy court review processes related to fee applications.
• Meet and confer with attorneys, clients, and other professionals to discuss cases, projects, and ongoing client development initiatives.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. If an estimated salary range for this role is available, it will be provided in our Target Salary Range section. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities (Duties) above satisfactorily and meet the requirements below. The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email staffrecruiting@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources). 

Education and/or Experience: 

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Three to five years of paralegal experience 
• Ability to navigate and comply with jurisdiction-specific e-filing requirements, including CM/ECF and state/local bankruptcy courts systems.
• Strong familiarity with Pacer, Docket Alarm and other docket management systems.
• Willingness to work outside of normal business hours to ensure deadlines are met.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to proofread and review legal documents for accuracy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, and to exercise discretion and good judgment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, including PowerPoint and Excel.

Preferred:

• Paralegal certificate a plus
• Preference for candidates who have worked in bankruptcy, restructuring, or financial litigation.

Other Skills and Abilities:

The following will also be required of the successful candidate:

• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good judgment
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others
• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Able to work under pressure
• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.