Litigation Paralegal

Location: La Jolla, CA (Hybrid Available)
Salary: Up to $105,000 annually, DOE
Employment Type: Full-Time

About Us

We are a growing and highly respected litigation law firm located in La Jolla, California. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation while delivering compassionate client service. We seek an experienced Litigation Paralegal who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is highly organized, and is passionate about supporting attorneys and clients through complex litigation matters.

Position Summary

The Litigation Paralegal will play a critical role in supporting attorneys throughout all phases of litigation, from intake through trial and resolution. The ideal candidate possesses strong civil litigation experience, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to communicate professionally and compassionately with clients regarding sensitive and often emotional matters.

This position requires close collaboration with attorneys, investigators, litigation assistants, expert witnesses, and clients to ensure cases are handled efficiently, deadlines are met, and firm standards are maintained. The Litigation Paralegal will also serve as a mentor to junior team members and help foster best practices within the legal support team.

Key Responsibilities

Litigation Support

• Draft pleadings, motions, notices, subpoenas, and court filings in compliance with applicable court rules and deadlines.
• Manage cases through all stages of litigation, including pre-suit, discovery, trial preparation, and settlement.
• Coordinate hearings, depositions, mediations, and court appearances with courts, opposing counsel, clients, experts, and vendors.
• Prepare and assist with discovery requests and responses, including interrogatories, requests for admission, and requests for production.
• Organize, track, review, and manage large volumes of discovery and case records.
• Assist attorneys with trial preparation, exhibits, witness coordination, and document management.

Client Management

• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, providing updates and gathering information throughout the litigation process.
• Conduct detailed client interviews and case assessments involving sensitive and confidential subject matter.
• Maintain regular communication with clients and ensure timely follow-up regarding case developments.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships through professionalism, empathy, and responsiveness.

Case Management & Administration

• Maintain complete and organized electronic case files within the firm's case management system.
• Track all litigation deadlines and court dates to ensure timely compliance.
• Accurately document case activity, notes, correspondence, and critical case information.
• Manage litigation calendars and coordinate scheduling across multiple active matters.
• Ensure all documents, emails, pleadings, and related materials are properly saved and categorized according to firm protocols.
• Coordinate deposition logistics, transcript management, subpoena service, and witness files.
• Ensure invoices and litigation-related expenses are submitted and processed timely.

Leadership & Mentorship

• Assist in training, onboarding, and mentoring new litigation paralegals and legal support staff.
• Share best practices and contribute to process improvements that enhance efficiency and client service.
• Serve as a resource for litigation support staff regarding procedures, systems, and case management standards.

Qualifications

Required

• 5+ years of civil litigation experience.
• Prior experience in personal injury, mass tort, or plaintiff-side litigation preferred.
• Strong experience drafting motions, managing discovery, calendaring deadlines, and trial preparation.
• Familiarity with California state and federal court filing procedures.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple cases and competing deadlines simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Experience with legal case management software and litigation support platforms.

Preferred

• Paralegal Certificate from an ABA-approved program.
• Trial preparation and courtroom support experience.
• Experience coordinating expert witnesses and complex litigation matters.
• Familiarity with Neos, Filevine, Clio, or similar case management systems.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary up to $105,000 annually, depending on experience.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with employer contribution.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and firm holidays.
• Hybrid work flexibility after training period.
• Professional development and continuing legal education opportunities.
• Collaborative, supportive team environment in beautiful La Jolla.