Legal Assistant

About Our Firm

David B. Smith, PLLC is a litigation firm with a focus on federal criminal defense and asset forfeiture cases with offices in Virginia and New York. The Virginia office, located in Old Town Alexandria, seeks a Legal Assistant for two attorneys. We are a small, friendly firm housed in an historic townhome eight blocks from the waterfront. The office is led by David B. Smith, a nationally recognized expert in forfeiture law. He is the author of two legal treatises published by Matthew Bender, Prosecution and Defense of Forfeiture Cases and Civil RICO. We encourage you to visit our website at DavidBSmithPLLC.com for additional information about our firm. The start date is March 11, 2024.

Job Responsibilities

• Draft, type, edit and proofread documents
• Organize case files
• Prepare information charts and summaries from records, statements and other documentation
• Gather and assist with preparation of exhibits and brief appendix material
• Convert documents to pdf format for filing with court
• File pleadings through federal CM/ECF system
• Open new client files
• Maintain archived file system, including purging/destruction of closed files
• Prepare retainer agreements and billing statements
• Input data and file vouchers for CJA E-voucher system
• Inventory and order office supplies
• Oversee and schedule service for office equipment
• Review and distribute incoming mail
• Answer telephone
• Maintain digital and physical records
• Calendar due dates and deadlines for pleadings
• Alert lawyers to issues requiring their attention
• Assist with submission of semi-annual updates for two legal treatises
• Maintain contact with clients and opposing counsel
• Build positive client relationships and establish trust, maintain confidentiality
• Assist firm bookkeeper with occasional preparation of bank deposits and writing of checks (will provide training)

Qualifications and Skills

• Excellent typing and proofreading skills
• Proficient with Word
• Basic knowledge of WordPerfect a plus
• Experience with federal CM/ECF filing system
• Familiar with federal CJA e-voucher system (can provide training)
• Attention to detail and strong organization skills
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to perform within deadlines
• Excellent verbal communication, including ability to listen
• Proficient in writing, editing and proofreading
• Integrity

Experience

• At least 2 years of legal experience, preferably in criminal defense work
• Familiarity with basic bookkeeping a plus

Salary and Work Hours

• Salary — $55,000 to $65,000, commensurate with experience
• Full time — 4 day in-office work week
• Hours — 9:30 to 5:30 with one hour for lunch
• Paid leave — 40 hours year 1 (prorated to start date); 80 hours years 2-4; negotiable over 4 years
• Office closed on all federal holidays
• Paid parking

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $25.00 - $35.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32 per week

Benefits:

• Free parking
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Travel requirement:

• No travel

Ability to Relocate:

• Alexandria, VA 22314: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person