Executive Legal Assistant
Permanent Placements is seeking an Executive Assistant to join our prestigious client's Palo Alto office. This position will be a hybrid position with 4 days in the office and 1-day WFH (either Mondays or Fridays on a rotation basis). The Executive Assistant provides assistance to, and manages resources for, partners, counsel, associates and staff attorneys.
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Handles standard administrative functions including answering, screening and placing phone calls; opening and routing mail as directed; maintaining files, records, attorney calendars and time records; preparing attorney expense reports.
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Proxies into attorney's e-mail (if permission is granted) to process new messages, maintain organized e-mail folders and keep attorney apprised of priorities. Ensures proper filing of emails to retention folders and SRM.
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Anticipates attorney needs by proactively identifying potential issues and conflicts and takes the initiative to offer solutions and preempt needs.
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Prepares engagement letters and new client/matter memos, and updates active client/matter number lists to assist with the new business process.
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Utilizes tracking charts for keeping up-to-date records, with a special focus on billing and new business.
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Handles all aspects of document preparation, processing, preparing redlines, PDF creation, conversions and quality control of work product.
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Works in tandem with Client Accounting to ensure up-to-date and accurate client billing.
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Seeks ways of being energetically responsive to clients, providing superior client service in both small and large ways.
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Assists in promoting business development through entry of activities, maintenance of contacts and assembling of mailing lists in InterAction.
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Utilizes applications like Excel and PowerPoint to facilitate attorneys’ work.
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Researches and makes complex travel arrangements for attorneys, including assisting with visa requirements.
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Prepares check requests for vendor invoices.
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Delegates work to other departments as necessary, coordinating the completion of delegated work and verifying its accuracy.
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Assists with attorney personal work when required.
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Ensures proper functioning of all software and hardware being used by attorneys, in consultation with technology support staff.
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Performs responsibilities of other support services when needed, including but not limited to printing, scanning, duplicating, quality control, faxing and hand-delivering packages.
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Performs special projects as assigned.
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Assures that all completed projects adhere to accepted professional standards.
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Demonstrates effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills to facilitate effective work relationships with others.
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Manages Firm resources responsibly.
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Complies with and understands Firm operation, policies and procedures.
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Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.
Qualifications
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Knowledge of relevant firm computer software programs (e.g., Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint), with the ability to learn new software and operating systems
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Demonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills, both verbally and in writing
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Demonstrates close attention to detail
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Flexibility and willingness to perform a wide range of tasks extending beyond routine expectations
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Ability to handle multiple projects and shifting priorities
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Ability to work well independently as well as effectively within a team
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Ability to synthesize information to prioritize and organize tasks
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Ability to work well in a demanding and fast-paced environment
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Ability to work in-office at least four days per week to perform in-office administrative functions, maintain physical files, and provide client support services
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Frequent physical exertion including sitting, repetitive use of both hands, lifting and carrying up to 10 pounds
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Ability to handle sensitive matters and maintain confidentiality
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Demonstrates a high level of professionalism
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Flexibility and willingness to perform a wide range of tasks extending beyond routine expectations
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Candidates with experience supporting attorneys in Litigation, Intellectual Property, and/or Corporate law are a plus, but not required.
Education & Experience
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High school diploma or equivalent
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Minimum of three years of experience in an office environment or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Benefits
The overall well-being of our team is important to us. We offer generous benefits to help you achieve wellness in all areas of your life.
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Competitive salaries and year-end discretionary bonuses.
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Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.
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Generous paid time off.
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Paid leave options, including parental.
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In-classroom, remote, and on-demand learning and professional development opportunities.
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Robust well-being classes and programs.
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Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.