Job Summary

-Assist attorney(s) by investigating facts, preparing legal documents and gathering supporting documentation, managing client interactions, managing cases and court clerk communications.

-Execute professional and compassionate client-facing communications, message-taking and calendaring as necessary.

Education and Experience

Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) or at least three (3) year on-the-job equivalent experience in probate or related field.

Knowledge

Clerical - Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology, message-taking and call screening.

English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, punctuation and grammar.

Spanish Language – conversational level fluency preferred but not required.

Law - Knowledge of probate procedures and general law firm practices.

Client Service and Professional Standards - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing client and interpersonal communications. This includes client needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, a high level of interpersonal skills and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of computer applications and programming including Microsoft Office 365, e-filing applications, SOSDirect, Webfile, DocuSign or equivalent, Clio, West Doc and Form Builder.

Skills

Basic Skills

• Critical Thinking- Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Reading Comprehension- Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
• Speaking- Ability to communicate effectively and compassionately.
• Writing- Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
• Complex Problem Solving- Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement primary and alternative solutions.
• Management of Personnel Resources- Ability to work with on-site and remote employees effectively and interpersonally.
• Time Management- Managing one's own time and the time of others.

Primary Job Duties

• Prepare legal documents, including probate pleadings and ancillary documents, wills and other estate planning documents as directed, contracts, and business formation and maintenance documents.
• Answer and place calls professionally and compassionately. Direct and coordinate law office activity, including scheduling, maintaining calendars, training as directed.
• Prepare affidavits or other documents, such as legal correspondence, and organize and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing system.
• Prepare for hearings by performing tasks such as organizing exhibits.
• Meet with clients and other professionals to discuss details of case.
• File pleadings with court clerk via e-filing systems.
• Investigate facts of cases, maintain contact with witnesses and court staff, coordinate hearings (both live and via Zoom or related teleconferencing applications), search pertinent sources, such as public records and internet sources, to determine causes of action and to prepare cases.
• Acquire and maintain certification as Texas Notary Public, coordinate execution of estate planning documents.
• Other duties as may from time to time be assigned.