Paralegal

Position summary Under general supervision and per established policies and procedures, provides legal and general support to the firm's attorneys and clients. Must be familiar with and adhere to the firm's policies and guidelines. Maintains positive relationships with attorneys (both internal and external), support staff, clients, and vendors. Ensures confidentiality of client and firm matters. This position is not limited to the functions and skills listed in this description and responsibilities may be revised as needed. Job duties and responsibilities Organize, review, and index legal records and documents for litigation, managing both electronic and hard copy files. Handle discovery materials, deposition exhibits, summaries, and case materials for experts and witnesses. Track deadlines and keep the team informed. Assist with trial preparation, including preparing exhibit and witness lists, trial exhibits, demonstrative materials, and managing offsite war room spaces as needed. Ensure compliance with court procedures and arbitration rules, such as formatting and trial exhibit requirements. Help prepare and finalize legal documents, including subpoenas, motions, pleadings, and correspondence. Perform proofreading, cite-checking, and blue-booking for accuracy and compliance. File documents electronically (ECF) in state and federal courts, including delivering courtesy copies to judges when required. Maintain knowledge of e-filing systems like PACER Nextgen and NYSCEF, and travel to borough courts for in-person filings when necessary. Interface with court clerks and administrative agencies to retrieve documents and address procedural questions. Coordinate with vendors for service of process and court filings and prepare affidavits of service and notarize documents as needed. Delegate tasks to junior paralegals, legal assistants, and other office staff, ensuring efficient workflow and timely completion of duties. Work independently, manage multiple assignments, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Adapt to shifting priorities and show initiative in incorporating new technology and skills. Maintain clear communication with attorneys, staff, and clients to ensure smooth operations across all aspects of the litigation process. Utilize legal research tools and databases (e.g., Lexis/Nexis, Relativity) to support case preparation and stay updated on legal technologies. Other duties as assigned. Job duties and responsibilities included are not exhaustive and may be supplemented as necessary. Reed Smith reserves the right to revise or modify job duties and responsibilities at any time. Requirements Education: Bachelor's degree and paralegal certificate required. Will consider relevant law firm experience in lieu of certificate. Experience: 7-10 years' experience in a law firm is required, though experience in a legal environment is a plus. Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with individuals at all organizational levels. Strong organizational and prioritization skills, ensuring the efficient management of tasks and deadlines. Proven ability to work independently on projects with minimal supervision, demonstrating initiative and reliability. Highly adaptable with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, constantly changing environment. Demonstrates sound judgment and decision-making skills, exercising initiative to resolve issues proactively. Knowledge of appellate procedures, a plus. Other Supervisory responsibilities: None Equipment to be used: Personal computer and other office equipment such as telephone, calculator, copier, scanner, etc. Essential job functions Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and perform tasks requiring prolonged and/or extensive computer use. Ability to utilize technology, including computers and telecommunication devices. Ability to work under pressure with composure and resilience in a fast-paced and dyna