Entry Level Litigation Paralegal - Chicago

The Chicago office of Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP is looking for an entry level litigation paralegal to support the litigation practice group. Willkie is an elite international law firm of approximately 1,200 lawyers located in 15 offices in six countries.

The Litigation Paralegal will be responsible for providing organizational and project based support to the Senior Litigation Paralegals and attorneys from case inception through case closure. Additionally they will be responsible for the coordination of all details before, during and after trial. The successful candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of one years of relevant experience (internships included). This role requires a hybrid schedule that consists of four days in office. The ideal candidate will be available to start in person July 14, 2025 and is willing to make a two year commitment to the Firm.

At Willkie, we believe great people are the key to our success. We are offering a highly competitive compensation package with exceptional benefits. If you are looking to work in a friendly, collaborative environment that affords unique opportunities to expand your professional development, this role is for you.

• Creates and implements all elements of litigation case management systems, including file management (electronic and hard copy), case calendaring, discovery-related tasks and trial activities
• Maintain pleadings and discovery indexes
• Assist Senior Paralegals and attorneys with document reviews (setup, coordination of hot doc binders, preparation of privilege logs, conduct searches as needed, etc.)
• Assist with preparation of state and federal court filings in coordination with Chicago Docketing team, including coordination of service copies, delivery of documents to Court, preparation of litigation backs and other specific document preparation as required by the specific Court or Judge
• Draft and review routine legal documents as requested by attorneys
• Conduct precedent and legal research under Senior Paralegals and attorney supervision
• Interact with outside entities (e.g. courts, government agencies, expert witnesses, corporations, vendors and other law firms) to gather information or coordinate activities as needed in support of upcoming depositions, trials, arbitrations
• Create and maintain effective working relationships with others to facilitate a positive work environment
• Maintain impeccable writing and communication skills, excellent attention to detail, strong organizational skills and ability to multitask
• Perform other duties as assigned

• BA or BS degree required
• Strong attention to detail and accountability 
• Ability to communicate with individuals of all levels within the firm in a courteous and professional manner 
• Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to work concurrently on a variety of matters and manage time and expectations 
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team 
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines 
• Proficient with Microsoft Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook, as well as knowledge of Adobe Acrobat Pro
• Must be available for weekends, firm holidays, overtime and travel (for trials) as needed
• Ability to make a two year commitment prior to law school

• Ability to sit at a desk most of the working day and walk short distances.
• Needs manual dexterity, speed and accuracy in handling office equipment.
• Ability to work efficiently and accurately in an atmosphere of frequent interruption.
• Ability to work in close proximity to other individuals.
• Ability to carry light to moderate objects (e.g., files, small objects and supplies a short distance)
• Must be able to lift, carry, and move objects up to 25 lbs. on occasion

• Non-Exempt
• Hybrid 

The salary range for this role represents the Firm’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be dependent upon a number of factors, including but not limited to, the candidate’s relevant experience, qualifications and location. Willkie offers a comprehensive suite of benefit programs to all eligible employees. A summary of available benefits can be found here in the Career section of the Firm’s website.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher is an Equal Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon actual or perceived: race (including hair texture, protective hairstyles and other traits associated with race), color, age, religious creed, citizenship, citizenship status and alienage, nationality, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity or creed, disability, genetic information or medical condition, reproductive health decision making, pregnancy or maternity, paternity, marital or civil partnership status, caregiver status, gender (including gender identity, expression, nonconformity, gender reassignment or status as a transgender individual), sex, sexual orientation or preference, veteran or military status, height, weight, any other characteristic protected by law or any combination thereof. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let the hiring manager know.