Legal Assistant - Trial; Chicago, IL

Legal Assistant - Trial (Chicago, IL)

Join Dorsey & Whitney LLP as a Legal Assistant in our Trial department. In a fast‑paced, client‑focused environment, you will provide administrative support to attorneys and attorneys in the Chicago office.

• Provide legal administrative support to attorneys, serving as a liaison for clients.
• Initiate client/matter openings, including conflicts checks and engagement letters.
• Proactively review calendars to maintain an overview of attorneys’ deadlines, anticipate next steps, and implement follow‑up procedures.
• Edit and draft electronic correspondence, pleadings, discovery, briefs and other memoranda for accuracy.
• Manage docket and coordinate upcoming dates and deadlines with attorneys and paralegals.
• File legal documents electronically in state and federal courts.
• Enter attorneys’ time and ensure accuracy by proofreading, using spellcheck and appropriate task codes to comply with firm policies.
• Assist with billing, including distributing monthly pro‑formas, reviewing and editing pro‑formas, and sending invoices and related correspondence to clients.
• Maintain client files electronically and in hard copy; file documents promptly in Outlook and the document management system.
• Process incoming and outgoing mail and communications, including packages for shipment.
• Process reimbursement requests, check requests, and vendor invoices.
• Coordinate attorney meetings and appointments and schedule conference rooms.
• Arrange travel accommodations, including flights, hotels, and rental cars.
• Keep attorney CLE records and register seminar attendance.
• Delegate administrative tasks to Department Administrative Assistants.
• Provide a high level of customer service to attorneys and clients.
• Perform other duties as requested.

• High School diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
• At least 4 years of related experience; law firm experience preferred.
• Knowledge of local and federal court rules and procedures.
• Experience with Federal and State Court filing systems.>
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Proficiency with Adobe Acrobat.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Excellent customer/client service focus and skills.
• Ability to coordinate multiple tasks and perform well under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Ability to use good judgment in resolving conflict and working in challenging situations.
• Ability to maintain client and firm confidentiality.
• Positive attitude and ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills; independent judgment.
• Thorough understanding of legal terminology and procedures relevant to the practice area.

Dorsey & Whitney is an international law firm with more than 575 lawyers in 21 offices across the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. We are a premier legal counsel to companies worldwide in a wide range of industries, including banking, finance, development, infrastructure, energy, natural resources, food, beverage, agribusiness, healthcare, life sciences, and technology.

Dorsey is committed to providing disability and religious‑based reasonable accommodations, as well as menopause, pregnancy, or lactation‑related accommodations. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application and hiring process, please contact us at 612‑492‑5178.

Dorsey & Whitney LLP accepts online applications. Visit the “Careers” section of the Dorse website at  and complete the online application form. We are unable to accept application materials by mail or email.

Dorsey & Whitney LLP is an EEO/AAP/Disabled Vets Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, military or veteran status, or any other legally‑protected status.

Dorsey & Whitney LLP participates in E‑Verify.

The pay range for this position in Illinois only is $30.36 to $56.21 per hour.

We are not currently accepting search firm submissions for this opening.