Benefits:
Retirement with Company Match
Bonus based on performance
Company parties
Competitive salary
Training & development
Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight is looking for a motivated and experienced legal assistant/paralegal.
About the Firm
JHWK is a fast-moving criminal defense firm in Birmingham with five attorneys and more than 150 active cases in both Alabama state and federal courts. Our practice includes representation in serious and complex criminal matters, including white collar crimes, violent felony offenses, sex crimes, and drug-related charges. We are committed to providing high-quality legal advocacy for individuals facing life-changing allegations.
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Legal Assistant/Paralegal to support our attorneys in all stages of criminal litigation. This role requires excellent organizational skills, strong communication abilities, and the capacity to manage a high-volume caseload. The work environment is fast-paced, team-oriented, and deadline driven.
Candidates should be prepared to handle sensitive and sometimes graphic discovery materials, including photos, videos, and reports. Professionalism, discretion, and emotional maturity are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Draft, proofread, and file motions, subpoenas, discovery responses, and other legal documents. Assist attorneys with trial preparation, hearings, and client communications. Organize and manage large volumes of discovery, including digital evidence. Review and summarize police reports, witness statements, forensic materials, and case files. Maintain calendars, deadlines, and case management systems for multiple attorneys using Practice Panther and Microsoft Outlook. Coordinate meetings, court dates, and logistical tasks. Manage incoming phone calls from both existing and new client, judges and court staff, and other attorneys. Communicate with clients, courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies in a professional manner.
Qualifications
3–5 years of experience in a criminal defense or litigation-focused law firm. Working knowledge of Alabama state and federal court procedures. Experience with electronic filing systems (AlaFile, Alacourt, PACER). Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to multitask. High attention to detail and accuracy in drafting legal documents. Ability to handle confidential and sensitive material, including graphic discovery content. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and legal case management software.
Preferred Skills
Experience supporting attorneys handling felony-level or complex criminal cases. Familiarity with digital discovery platforms and handling video or multimedia evidence. Strong writing and editing skills.
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary based on experience Health insurance options Opportunities for professional development Collaborative and supportive family-style work environment