Litigation Paralegal - Newport Beach (Onsite) | $75,000-$90,000
A fast-paced personal injury and trial practice in Newport Beach is seeking an experienced Litigation Paralegal to join the team onsite. The firm handles significant injury and wrongful-death matters, prepares multiple cases for trial each year, and is committed to delivering high-level advocacy. We are looking for someone who can hit the ground running and operate with independence, strong organization, and professionalism.
A detailed outline of the firm's expectations and protocols will be provided to applicants invited to interview.
Position Overview
The Litigation Paralegal will support attorneys from case intake through trial. Responsibilities include calendaring, deposition coordination, case management, client communication, discovery support, and trial preparation. This position requires a strong understanding of California civil litigation procedures and the ability to manage deadlines without micromanagement.
Key Responsibilities
Calendaring & Deadline Management
- Maintain and update all litigation deadlines, hearings, depositions, mediations, expert disclosures, and trial dates.
- Immediately calendar new dates upon receipt and send written confirmation to the assigning attorney.
- Conduct regular audits to ensure accuracy and prevent conflicts.
Case File Management
- Maintain highly organized digital and physical case files consistent with firm structure and naming conventions.
- Ensure pleadings, correspondence, exhibits, discovery, deposition transcripts, and trial materials are filed promptly and accessible.
Deposition Coordination
- Schedule depositions with counsel, witnesses, vendors, and interpreters.
- Prepare and serve deposition notices and subpoenas.
- Confirm logistics and ensure preparation sessions are calendared.
Client Communication & Support
- Communicate professionally with clients regarding appointments, case updates, and preparation for depositions, mediations, and trial.
- Maintain timely response and follow-up standards.
Trial Preparation
- Assist with trial binders, exhibit lists, witness lists, jury instructions, and subpoenas.
- Coordinate trial logistics, vendor communication, and delivery of trial materials.
Vendor & Court Coordination
- Work with process servers, record-retrieval companies, court reporters, and court clerks.
- Ensure filings and service are completed accurately and documented.
E-Filing & Service
- Prepare and submit e-filings through California court platforms.
- Prepare proofs of service, maintain service logs, and file conformed copies.
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of California civil litigation experience (personal injury strongly preferred).
- Strong understanding of civil procedure, litigation deadlines, and trial preparation workflows.
- Proficiency with calendaring systems, case management software, and e-filing platforms.
- Exceptional organization and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and anticipate next steps.
- Professional communication skills with clients, counsel, experts, and court personnel.
- Strong writing, formatting, and document-preparation skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Trial preparation and/or trial support experience.
- Experience preparing deposition notices, subpoenas, and exhibit packets.
- Familiarity with CasePeer (a plus but not required).
- Ability to manage multiple cases and deadlines in a fast-paced trial environment.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.