What does a Legal Administrative Assistant do?
Published 4 min read
A legal administrative assistant is responsible for providing administrative support to lawyers and paralegals. Their duties may include preparing and filing legal documents, scheduling appointments, and maintaining records.
Legal Administrative Assistant job duties include:
- Answer phones and direct calls to the appropriate party
- Open, sort, and distribute incoming correspondence
- Drafting and preparing legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, appeals, contracts, etc.
- Prepare legal research and writing
- Assist with trial preparation including witness lists, exhibits, and jury instructions
- Manage attorney calendars and schedules
- Make travel arrangements for attorneys
- Receive and manage client payments
- Maintain client confidentiality
Legal Administrative Assistant Job Requirements
A Legal Administrative Assistant typically needs at least an Associate's degree, although a Bachelor's degree is often preferred. Many employers also require certification, such as the Certified Legal Administrative Assistant (CLAA) designation offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). In addition to education and certification, most employers prefer candidates with at least some experience working in a law office.
Legal Administrative Assistant Skills
- Communication
- Organization
- Writing
- Research
- Microsoft Office
- Typing
- Proofreading
- Scheduling
- Client interaction
- Filing
- Data entry
Related: Top Legal Administrative Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Legal Administrative Assistant
A legal administrative assistant (also known as a legal secretary) is a professional who provides support to lawyers and other legal professionals. As a legal administrative assistant, you will perform a variety of administrative tasks, including preparing and filing documents, scheduling appointments, and maintaining records. You will also be responsible for communicating with clients and other members of the legal team.
Becoming a legal administrative assistant requires completing high school or equivalent education, as well as completing a post-secondary program in legal administration. Many programs can be completed in 1-2 years and include coursework in office administration, computer applications, and legal research and writing. After completing your education, you will need to pass a certification exam to earn your professional designation.
While not required, many legal administrative assistants also choose to become certified paralegals. Paralegal certification requires completing an accredited paralegal program and passing a standardized exam. Paralegal certification can give you an edge in the job market and demonstrate your commitment to your career.
If you are interested in becoming a legal administrative assistant, start by researching educational programs at local colleges and universities. Once you have completed your education, take the time to study for and pass your certification exams. Then, actively search for job openings at law firms or other businesses that utilize the services of legal administrative assistants. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goal of becoming a legal administrative assistant.
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