Paralegal - Business and Tax Practice Group

Paralegal – Business and Tax Practice Group

Location: Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith P.C.

Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith P.C. is seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Paralegal to join our Business & Tax Practice Group in our Grand Rapids office. This is a full-time opportunity for a dedicated legal professional who enjoys complex transactional work, client interaction, and collaborative legal support in the areas of estate planning, tax and business law.

This position plays a vital role in supporting attorneys through advanced legal research, drafting, document management, and direct client communication. Prior paralegal experience in business, tax, or estate planning law is required.

Key Responsibilities:

Client & Matter Management:

• Manage assigned matters from initial intake through completion, including preparing matter summaries, timelines, and client correspondence
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, gathering financial, business, and personal information necessary for legal planning
• Maintain organized and accurate client files in compliance with firm policies and confidentiality standards

Legal Research & Analysis:

• Conduct legal and factual research related to estate planning, taxation, business entities, and business matters
• Summarize findings and prepare memoranda for attorney review
• Assist attorneys with issue spotting and analysis of complex legal documents

Drafting & Document Preparation:

• Draft and revise estate planning documents including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and related instruments
• Prepare business formation and governance documents such as operating agreements, bylaws, resolutions, and shareholder agreements
• Assist with preparation of tax-related filings, correspondence, and supporting documentation
• Ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with applicable laws and firm standards

Transactional & Tax Support:

• Assist with business transactions, succession planning, and asset transfers
• Compile and organize financial records, tax returns, and supporting schedules
• Coordinate with accountants, financial advisors, and other professionals as needed
• Track deadlines related to filings, closings, and client deliverables

Deadline Management:
• Maintain accurate docketing of filing deadlines and compliance requirements

Technology Utilization:

• Utilize firm systems including document management, timekeeping, and practice management software
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office 365, including Word, Outlook, and Excel

Billing & Timekeeping:

• Accurately track billable time in accordance with firm policies
• Assist attorneys with pre-bill review and client invoicing as needed

Professional Collaboration:

• Work closely with attorneys, paralegals, and firm staff to support legal strategies and client service goals
• Maintain a proactive, detail-oriented, and service-focused approach

Why Join Foster Swift?

At Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith, we prioritize our employees' well-being and professional growth. We offer:

• Comprehensive Benefits: Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance, company-paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, and a 401(k) plan
• Additional Perks: Flexible voluntary benefit options to address your personal needs
• Professional Environment: Work with a collaborative and supportive team dedicated to delivering legal excellence and outstanding client service

With over 100 years of history, Foster Swift serves businesses, municipalities, families, and individuals across Michigan, the nation, and beyond. Our conveniently located offices in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Southfield, and Holland allow us to provide unmatched legal expertise.

Commitment to Diversity

Foster Swift is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other status protected by applicable laws.

Apply Today
Join our team and become part of a legacy of excellence. If you meet the qualifications and are excited about this opportunity, we encourage you to apply now!

Qualifications and Skills:

• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree required; completion of an ABA-approved paralegal program is strongly preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of five years of paralegal experience in business law, tax law, estate planning, or related practice areas required.

Skills:

• Solid understanding of legal terminology and grammar.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and a willingness to enhance technical skills.
• Strong proofreading and editing abilities.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication (oral and written) and time management skills.

Professionalism: Must maintain confidentiality, demonstrate reliability, and provide excellent client service.

Teamwork: Ability to interact effectively with attorneys, clients, and staff.

Prioritization: Effectively manage and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced legal environment to ensure timely and accurate completion of assignments.