The Discovery Clerk is responsible for managing all aspects of the discovery process within our personal injury law firm. This role involves drafting and responding to discovery documents, organizing medical records, tracking critical deadlines, and maintaining comprehensive case files. The position requires close collaboration with attorneys to gather necessary case information, prepare for depositions, and organize evidence for trial preparation. The Discovery Clerk serves as a key point of contact with clients, helping to explain procedures and gather information needed for case progression. This role demands strong organizational skills, attention to detail, legal knowledge specific to personal injury litigation, and the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously while ensuring all discovery obligations are met in a timely manner.
Job Duties:
- Draft and organize discovery materials, such as interrogatories, requests for production of documents, and requests for admissions, to assist in gathering necessary information for cases.
- Prepare thorough responses to discovery requests from opposing counsel, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
- Assist Trial Lawyers by preparing essential legal documents, including summonses and complaints, as well as specific motions, discovery requests, and filings related to the case's progress.
- Track all discovery deadlines using calendar systems and provide regular updates to the legal team.
- Create comprehensive chronological summaries of medical treatment.
- Compose and send professional correspondence, including letters, emails, and other communication, ensuring clear and timely updates for clients, witnesses, and other parties involved in the case.
- Coordinate comprehensive medical record collection, organization, and analysis, creating detailed chronological summaries of treatment and expense reports while ensuring HIPAA compliance and proper handling of sensitive information.
- Other miscellaneous duties as assigned.
Competencies & abilities in:
- Legal Knowledge & Document Preparation: Strong understanding of the Code of Civil Procedure with proficiency in drafting and reviewing legal documents, including pleadings, discovery materials, and trial-related documents.
- Trial Support & Coordination: Skilled in organizing trial materials, coordinating witness schedules, and assisting with trial preparation under tight deadlines.
- Time Management & Attention to Detail: Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently, prioritize duties, and maintain accuracy in all aspects of case management, including legal writing and document review.
- Independent Work & Communication: Capable of working independently with minimal supervision while effectively communicating with clients, attorneys, and other stakeholders.
- Organizational Skills & Confidentiality: Highly organized in managing case files and calendars, ensuring all materials are accessible, while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism in all matters.
- Bilingual proficiency (especially in Spanish) is preferred but not required for this position.
Work Environment:
This role is based in a modern office setting and involves regular use of standard office equipment, including computers, phones, printers, digital filing systems, and other essential office technology.
Essential Physical Functions:
- Ability to sit for extended periods of time while working at a desk or computer.
- Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, filing, and operating office equipment.
- Occasional lifting of office supplies and materials (up to 20 pounds).
- Ability to communicate effectively in person, via phone, and through written correspondence.
- Occasional standing, walking, and bending to access files or office materials.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, with hours ranging from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM based on an eight-hour workday. Overtime and schedule adjustments may be required based on operational needs.
Travel:
This position requires minimal travel within the state of California and accounts for less than 5% of an employee's responsibilities.
Required Education and Experience:
- Bachelor's degree in Paralegal Studies, Legal Studies, or a related field; or equivalent advanced experience.
- Minimum of 3 years of paralegal experience, with a strong background in personal injury law or complex litigation.
- Extensive knowledge of the Code of Civil Procedure and legal documentation standards.
- Proven expertise in legal research, case management, and trial preparation.
- Advanced proficiency with legal software and technology used in case management and document management systems.
Equipment Used:
- PC Computer
- Fax/Copy Machine
- Telephone