Legal Assistant/Paralegal

JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Legal Assistant/Paralegal will assist attorneys in general Estate Law and Elder Law matters including estate planning and administration (wills, trusts, probate filings, guardianship proceedings), Medicaid and Veterans Benefits planning, filing and processing Medicaid and VA applications. Prior experience in dealing with Medicaid applications and Insurance is a plus, but not required.

LOCATION:
Zacharia Brown Bonita Springs Office, 26811 South Bay Drive, Suite 260, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Manage client communications, appointments, and case status updates.
2. Conduct legal research and gather relevant documentation for cases.
3. Maintain and organize electronic and paper case files.
4. Handle administrative tasks, including scheduling meetings, drafting correspondence, and managing deadlines.
5. Assist attorneys with Estate and Trust Administration process
6. Work with attorneys to prepare and process Medicaid and VA applications.
7. Collaborate with attorneys and office staff to assist with intake, processing, preparation and filing of Medicaid and VA applications.
8. Communicate and correspond with clients during the intake process to obtain necessary information and documents that are needed by the attorney to complete Medicaid or VA planning and/or file a Medicaid or VA application.
9. Participate in client conferences to gain an understanding of Medicaid and VA planning for clients.
10. Meet with the responsible attorney to develop a task list for implementing a Medicaid or VA plan
11. Communicate directly with clients & advisors to obtain documentation on their accounts as well as other verifications needed for a Medicaid or VA application.
12. Work directly with case workers for the Department of Human Services or Veterans Administration on processing requests for information.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

1. Experience: Prior experience in a law firm or as a paralegal or legal assistant (estate planning or elder law experience) is a plus but not necessary.
2. Organizational Skills: Excellent attention to details and deadlines, extremely organized and has the ability to manage a significant number of documents as well as multiple client matter matters at one time.
3. People Skills: Serving our clients is of primary importance. Excellent interpersonal skills is required.
4. Tech Savvy: High level of competence in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook). Familiarity with legal software. Eagerness to learn more about technology is a bonus.
5. Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills with a client-first approach.
6. Team Player: Someone who works well with others and takes initiative.
7. Self-starter and strives for excellence.
8. Constantly looking for ways to improve the processes that are in place.
9. Highly personable and enjoys working directly with clients and other professionals (i.e. financial advisers, insurance agents, etc.) and their staff.
10. Very motivated with a desire to learn more about a complicated area of law.

WHY JOIN US?

• Meaningful Work: Help clients in times of crisis as well as to plan for their future and navigate sensitive legal processes.
• Friendly, Team-Oriented Culture: Work with experienced attorneys and staff in a friendly, collaborative and supportive environment.
• Room for Growth: We are committed to your professional development and success.
• Competitive Compensation Package: Competitive salary, benefits, and paid time off.

PART to FULL TIME POSITION

Seeking a candidate for a part time position (flexible 25-30 hours to start) with the possibility to transition to full time position based upon future firm needs. Full-time position would be 5 days per week (M-Th: 9:00am–5:00pm; Fri: 9:00-3:00pm).

COMPENSATION and Benefits

Compensation is based on experience and a competitive benefits package includes 401(k), Paid time off and holidays, opportunities for training and professional growth.

WHERE TO SUBMIT RESUME & COVER LETTER

Via Email: carrie@zacbrownlaw.com In the subject put “Legal Assistant/Paralegal Job Opening.”

ATTN: Carrie Conboy, HR Director

Fax: 724-942-6202

**The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. This job description may evolve as needed and it is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements