CRIMINAL DEFENSE LEGAL ASSISTANT

NextLaw is the top-rated Criminal Defense and DUI law firm in the Pacific Northwest.  We were just voted Best Criminal Defense Law Firm in Pierce County for 2025. We are growth-focused, have a winning team culture, and are committed to providing every client an experience that exceeds expectations.   

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Legal Assistant to support our attorneys in a dynamically growing criminal defense and personal injury practice. The ideal candidate will be the organizational backbone of the firm, managing administrative duties and assisting with case management from intake to resolution, while maintaining strict client confidentiality.

Key Responsibilities

• Case Management & Administration: Organize and maintain physical and electronic case files, ensuring all documentation (pleadings, motions, evidence, records) is complete, accurately filed, and easily accessible.
• Document Preparation: Draft, format, and proofread legal documents and correspondence, including client correspondence, motions, subpoenas, affidavits, and discovery requests/responses as directed by attorneys.
• Client & Witness Communication: Serve as a primary point of contact, communicating professionally and empathetically with clients, witnesses, and legal professionals via phone and email. 
• Calendaring & Deadlines: Manage attorney calendars, schedule appointments, meetings, depositions, and court hearings. Monitor and track all deadlines and the statute of limitations to ensure compliance with court rules.
• Information Gathering: Assist with public disclosure requests, coordinate with law enforcement agencies, and help track client incarceration or bail statuses.
• Court Support: Coordinate the service of process, prepare documents for e-filing in state and federal courts, and assist with trial preparation by organizing exhibits and trial notebooks.
• General Administrative Support: Handle general office duties such as answering phones, managing mail, processing client billing entries, and ordering office supplies. 

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: Proven working experience as a legal assistant or legal secretary, preferably with experience in criminal law.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and legal case management software (e.g., Clio, FileVine).
• Organizational Skills: Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize workload and juggle multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Confidentiality: A high degree of discretion and professionalism is essential for handling sensitive and confidential client information.
• Education: An associate’s degree or paralegal certification is often preferred, but relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. 

This role requires an individual who is a proactive team player and comfortable working independently to ensure the smooth operation of our office and effective progression of all cases.

Bilingual (especially Spanish) is a big plus.

Position is full time and on site, though we are open to discussing a hybrid scheduled after determining fit. Benefits include immediate matching 401(k), Health (including Vision/Dental) insurance, paid parking, and highly competitive PTO program.

If you think you’re a great fit for this exciting role, please send a resume and a cover letter telling us why you are a perfect fit for NextLaw, to info@calldannext.com.

To learn more about NextLaw, visit our website at calldannext.com or on social media (facebook.com/calldannext, instagram.com/nextlawpllc).