Top 12 Litigation Paralegal Skills to Put on Your Resume

In the competitive legal landscape, a litigation paralegal's resume must showcase a unique set of skills that blend legal knowledge with exceptional organizational abilities. Highlighting these top skills on your resume can set you apart, demonstrating your readiness to support attorneys effectively in high-stakes legal proceedings.

Litigation Paralegal Skills

1. LexisNexis
2. Westlaw
3. PACER
4. CaseMap
5. TimeMatters
6. EDiscovery
7. TrialDirector
8. Document Drafting
9. Litigation Support
10. Bluebook Citation
11. Deposition Summarization
12. Court Filing

1. LexisNexis

LexisNexis is a comprehensive legal research and business intelligence tool, offering access to a vast database of legal resources, case law, statutes, and legal news, essential for litigation paralegals in preparing cases, conducting legal research, and supporting attorneys.

Why It's Important

LexisNexis is a critical tool for litigation paralegals as it provides a comprehensive and accessible database of legal resources, including case law, statutes, and legal analysis, enabling efficient legal research, case preparation, and informed decision-making.

How to Improve LexisNexis Skills

Improving your use of LexisNexis as a Litigation Paralegal involves several straightforward steps focused on enhancing research efficiency and accuracy:

1. Enhance Search Skills: Master Boolean search logic to refine your queries. LexisNexis offers guidance on Boolean searches, helping you find relevant information faster.

2. Use Filters: Apply filters effectively to narrow down search results. Familiarize yourself with filtering options to quickly locate necessary documents or case law.

3. Save and Organize Documents: Utilize the folder system within LexisNexis to save your searches and important documents for easy access during your case preparation.

4. Shepardize®: Regularly use Shepard’s® Citations Service to ensure your case law is current and authoritative. This is crucial for litigation support (Shepard’s® Citations Service).

5. Training and Webinars: Participate in LexisNexis training sessions and webinars to stay updated on new features and best practices. They offer free training resources that are invaluable for paralegals.

6. LexisNexis Mobile App: Download and use the LexisNexis mobile app for research on-the-go, ensuring you have access to critical information anytime, anywhere.

7. Feedback and Support: Regularly provide feedback and utilize LexisNexis support for any challenges faced. Engaging with their support can offer personalized tips and help improve your experience.

By implementing these strategies, you can significantly enhance your proficiency and effectiveness in using LexisNexis for litigation support.

How to Display LexisNexis Skills on Your Resume

2. Westlaw

Westlaw is an online legal research service and database designed for legal professionals, including litigation paralegals. It provides access to a vast collection of legal resources, case law, statutes, regulations, and legal analysis to support case preparation and legal proceedings.

Why It's Important

Westlaw is important for a Litigation Paralegal because it provides comprehensive and up-to-date legal research tools, enabling efficient access to a vast database of case law, statutes, legal journals, and other crucial legal resources, essential for case preparation and strategy development.

How to Improve Westlaw Skills

Improving your proficiency with Westlaw as a Litigation Paralegal involves a few targeted strategies aimed at enhancing research efficiency, accuracy, and overall productivity. Here's a concise guide:

1. Utilize Advanced Search Options: Familiarize yourself with Boolean searches, terms and connectors for more precise results. Westlaw's Advanced Search Tips can significantly refine and target your research outcomes.

2. Leverage KeyCite: Use KeyCite to validate the authority of cases, statutes, and regulations, ensuring you rely on good law for litigation purposes.

3. Practice with Practical Law: Enhance your litigation support by accessing practice notes, checklists, and standard documents through Practical Law. It's a resource that offers guidance on various procedural and substantive law aspects.

4. Use Westlaw Edge's AI Features: Leverage AI-driven tools like WestSearch Plus for faster, more insightful legal research. These features can predict relevant answers to legal questions and suggest additional resources.

5. Attend Westlaw Training: Participate in Westlaw's training sessions or webinars to stay updated on new features and best practices. Continuous learning is key to maximizing the platform's potential.

6. Customize Your Experience: Make use of Westlaw’s customization options to save frequently used resources, organize your research with folders, and set up alerts on specific cases or topics to stay informed about new developments.

By adopting these strategies, you can significantly enhance your efficiency and effectiveness when conducting legal research on Westlaw, making you a more valuable asset in the litigation process.

How to Display Westlaw Skills on Your Resume

3. PACER

PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) is an online system that provides access to federal court documents and case information for litigation paralegals and other legal professionals.

Why It's Important

PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) is crucial for litigation paralegals as it provides instant, comprehensive access to federal court documents and case information, enabling efficient legal research, case tracking, and document retrieval essential for case preparation and management.

How to Improve PACER Skills

Improving PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records) for a Litigation Paralegal involves several strategies focused on enhancing efficiency, staying updated on system changes, and ensuring data accuracy:

1. Enhance Search Skills: Become proficient with PACER's search functionality. Use specific case numbers, party names, and advanced search options to quickly locate documents. PACER User Manual.

2. Stay Updated: Regularly check the PACER Announcements page for updates on system improvements, maintenance schedules, and new features.

3. Bookmark Relevant Pages: For quick access, bookmark frequently visited PACER pages or specific cases relevant to your work.

4. Use RSS Feeds: Subscribe to PACER's RSS feeds for real-time updates on new case filings and docket entries. PACER RSS Information.

5. Attend Training Sessions: Participate in PACER training sessions or webinars to learn about new features and best practices. PACER Training.

6. Utilize Free Access Options: Use the PACER Case Locator and consider accessing PACER at a local federal or bankruptcy court to avoid fees. PACER Case Locator.

7. Enhance Document Management: Use software tools for better organization and management of downloaded PACER documents.

8. Ensure Data Privacy: Be vigilant about redacting sensitive information before submitting documents to PACER to protect client privacy.

By adopting these strategies, a Litigation Paralegal can significantly improve their efficiency and effectiveness in using PACER.

How to Display PACER Skills on Your Resume

4. CaseMap

CaseMap is a litigation management software that allows paralegals and attorneys to organize, analyze, and collaborate on case facts, evidence, and issues, streamlining case preparation and strategy development.

Why It's Important

CaseMap is crucial for a Litigation Paralegal because it streamlines case organization, evidence management, and collaboration, significantly enhancing efficiency and accuracy in legal proceedings.

How to Improve CaseMap Skills

Improving your use of CaseMap as a Litigation Paralegal involves mastering data organization, enhancing analysis capabilities, and leveraging advanced features for more efficient case management. Here's a concise guide:

1. Familiarize with Core Features: Deepen your understanding of CaseMap's core functionalities like fact management, document linking, and report generation. LexisNexis offers an official guide that serves as a good starting point.

2. Utilize Templates: Create or customize CaseMap templates tailored to your firm's specific case types. This streamlines data entry and ensures consistency across cases. The CaseMap Support page can provide template management tips.

3. Integrate with Document Management Systems: Enhance efficiency by linking CaseMap with your existing document management system. This allows for seamless access and organization of case files. Explore integration features on the LexisNexis integration support page.

4. Leverage Advanced Search and Filter Tools: Master the use of advanced search and filtering within CaseMap to quickly locate critical information. This feature is crucial for analyzing case data and developing legal strategies.

5. Attend Training Sessions: LexisNexis often hosts training sessions and webinars for CaseMap users. Attending these can provide insights into advanced features and best practices. Keep an eye on the LexisNexis Training page for upcoming sessions.

6. Join User Communities: Engage with other CaseMap users in forums or LinkedIn groups. Sharing experiences and solutions can offer new perspectives and troubleshooting strategies.

7. Regularly Update Software: Ensure you're using the latest version of CaseMap to take advantage of new features and improvements. Check the LexisNexis Product Updates page for the latest information.

By focusing on these areas, you'll enhance your proficiency with CaseMap, leading to more efficient case preparation and management.

How to Display CaseMap Skills on Your Resume

5. TimeMatters

TimeMatters is a case and document management software designed to help litigation paralegals and legal professionals efficiently organize, track, and manage legal cases, documents, contacts, and calendars, enhancing productivity and streamlining workflow in a legal setting.

Why It's Important

TimeMatters is crucial for a Litigation Paralegal as it streamlines case management, enhances organization and efficiency, ensures critical deadlines are met, and improves communication and collaboration, ultimately maximizing productivity and effectiveness in legal proceedings.

How to Improve TimeMatters Skills

Improving TimeMatters for a Litigation Paralegal involves optimizing workflow, enhancing data organization, and leveraging automation. Here are succinct steps with resources:

1. Customize Matter Templates: Tailor templates to litigation specifics, ensuring all relevant data fields and documents are included. LexisNexis Support offers guides on customization.

2. Automate Document Assembly: Use TimeMatters to generate routine legal documents automatically, reducing manual input errors. HotDocs integration can streamline this process.

3. Improve Calendar Management: Integrate court deadlines directly into TimeMatters using rule-based calendaring, such as through LawToolBox, to avoid missing critical dates.

4. Optimize Email Organization: Link emails directly to relevant matters for easy access and tracking. TimeMatters offers direct integration with Outlook for seamless management.

5. Use Time Entry Assistant: Regularly utilize the Time Entry Assistant feature to capture unbilled time, ensuring accurate and maximized billing. TimeMatters Tips provide further insights.

6. Leverage Training Resources: Enhance your and your team's proficiency with TimeMatters through official LexisNexis Training options, including webinars and on-site sessions.

Implementing these steps will lead to a more efficient, organized, and productive use of TimeMatters for litigation paralegals, directly impacting case management positively.

How to Display TimeMatters Skills on Your Resume

6. EDiscovery

EDiscovery, or electronic discovery, refers to the process of seeking, locating, securing, and searching electronic data with the intent of using it as evidence in legal cases. For a litigation paralegal, it involves managing the collection, review, and production of electronic documents during litigation or investigations.

Why It's Important

EDiscovery is crucial for a Litigation Paralegal because it facilitates the efficient identification, collection, and production of electronic evidence, ensuring thorough preparation and effective case management in legal proceedings.

How to Improve EDiscovery Skills

Improving EDiscovery for a Litigation Paralegal involves enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration in handling electronic data during legal cases. Here are concise strategies:

1. Stay Updated with Technology: Regularly update your knowledge on EDiscovery tools and practices. ACEDS offers resources and certifications.

2. Use Advanced Search Techniques: Implement Boolean searches and predictive coding to sift through data more effectively. Logikcull provides insights on Boolean searches.

3. Prioritize Data Organization: Structure data storage and management systems for easy access and retrieval. Everlaw shares tips on organizing EDiscovery data.

4. Collaborate Efficiently: Utilize platforms that facilitate secure communication and collaboration. Relativity is a popular tool for team-based EDiscovery tasks.

5. Understand Legal Requirements: Keep abreast of changes in laws and regulations affecting EDiscovery. The Sedona Conference publishes guidelines and best practices.

6. Implement Project Management Principles: Apply project management techniques to oversee EDiscovery processes effectively. Clio discusses legal project management in EDiscovery.

7. Ensure Data Security: Adopt stringent security measures to protect sensitive information. NIST offers standards and resources for data security.

By focusing on these areas, a Litigation Paralegal can significantly improve the EDiscovery process, making it more efficient and reliable.

How to Display EDiscovery Skills on Your Resume

7. TrialDirector

TrialDirector is a comprehensive software used by litigation paralegals and attorneys to manage, organize, and present evidence and legal documents during trials. It facilitates the display of documents, videos, and other multimedia during court proceedings, enhancing the presentation and understanding of complex legal arguments.

Why It's Important

TrialDirector is important for a Litigation Paralegal because it streamlines the organization and presentation of evidence during trials, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of case presentations.

How to Improve TrialDirector Skills

To improve your proficiency with TrialDirector as a Litigation Paralegal, focus on these concise strategies:

1. Understand the Basics: Start with a solid foundation by familiarizing yourself with the basics of TrialDirector through the official iConnect Training Center. Grasping the core functionalities is crucial.

2. Online Tutorials and Webinars: Leverage free resources like YouTube tutorials and official webinars provided by iPro. They offer practical insights and examples.

3. Practice Regularly: Apply your knowledge by practicing with mock trial data. Regular use enhances your understanding of the software's capabilities and limitations.

4. Join User Groups: Engage with other professionals through forums and user groups, such as LinkedIn groups dedicated to legal technology or TrialDirector users. Sharing experiences can provide new tips and problem-solving techniques.

5. Official Certification: Consider obtaining an official TrialDirector certification. This not only improves your skills but also adds to your professional development.

6. Feedback Loop: Implement a feedback loop with your team or attorneys to identify areas of improvement and adapt your learning accordingly.

Focus on these strategies to enhance your TrialDirector skills effectively.

How to Display TrialDirector Skills on Your Resume

8. Document Drafting

Document drafting for a Litigation Paralegal involves creating legal documents and pleadings related to court cases, such as complaints, motions, and briefs, ensuring accuracy, compliance with legal standards, and adherence to court rules.

Why It's Important

Document drafting is crucial for a Litigation Paralegal because it ensures that all legal documents are accurate, clear, and comply with legal standards and requirements, which is essential for effectively presenting a case and supporting the legal argumentation process.

How to Improve Document Drafting Skills

Improving document drafting, especially for a Litigation Paralegal, involves honing skills in clarity, conciseness, and legal accuracy. Here's how:

1. Understand the Purpose: Clearly understand the goal of each document. This guide from the American Bar Association provides insights into different legal documents and their purposes.

2. Know Your Audience: Tailor your language and content to the document's intended readers, whether they are clients, opposing counsel, or judges. The Paralegal Society often discusses audience consideration in legal writing.

3. Organize Your Document: Use headings, bullet points, and numbered lists for clarity. The Legal Writing Institute offers resources on document organization and structure.

4. Be Clear and Concise: Use plain language and avoid unnecessary legal jargon. The Plain Language Action and Information Network provides tips on writing clearly.

5. Proofread and Edit: Always review your documents for errors and clarity. Tools like Grammarly can help catch mistakes.

6. Stay Current: Laws and legal formats evolve. Use Continuing Legal Education (CLE) opportunities through organizations like NALA to keep your skills sharp.

7. Practice Ethical Writing: Ensure all statements are accurate and supported by evidence. The National Federation of Paralegal Associations offers guidelines on ethics for paralegals.

By focusing on these areas, a Litigation Paralegal can significantly improve their document drafting skills, enhancing their value in the legal process.

How to Display Document Drafting Skills on Your Resume

9. Litigation Support

Litigation support involves providing comprehensive administrative and technical assistance to attorneys during the litigation process. This includes organizing documents, managing electronic data, researching, preparing exhibits, and facilitating communication among legal teams. For a litigation paralegal, it specifically entails aiding in case preparation, document management, and coordinating the logistics of trials and hearings.

Why It's Important

Litigation support is crucial for a Litigation Paralegal as it involves managing and organizing evidence, documents, and data essential for building a strong legal case. This support streamlines the litigation process, enhances the efficiency of case preparation, and aids in developing effective strategies for trial, ensuring that the legal team is well-prepared and can focus on the legal arguments and client representation.

How to Improve Litigation Support Skills

Improving litigation support as a Litigation Paralegal involves enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration in legal processes. Here are concise strategies:

1. Leverage Technology: Utilize legal software for document management (e.g., CaseMap) and eDiscovery tools (Relativity) to organize evidence and streamline review processes.

2. Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest legal trends, technologies, and practices through online courses and webinars (NALA, NFPA).

3. Effective Communication: Enhance collaboration with attorneys and clients by using secure communication platforms and developing clear reporting methods.

4. Time Management: Implement project management tools like Trello or Asana to prioritize tasks and deadlines effectively.

5. Detail-Oriented Approach: Develop a meticulous approach to reviewing legal documents and evidence, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

By focusing on these areas, Litigation Paralegals can significantly contribute to the efficiency and success of the legal team.

How to Display Litigation Support Skills on Your Resume

10. Bluebook Citation

The Bluebook citation is a standardized method for referencing legal documents, used primarily in the United States. It provides a systematic approach for legal professionals, including litigation paralegals, to cite statutes, cases, and other legal materials accurately and consistently in legal writing and court documents.

Why It's Important

Bluebook Citation is crucial for a Litigation Paralegal because it ensures consistent and accurate legal references, facilitating clear communication and credibility in court documents and legal research.

How to Improve Bluebook Citation Skills

Improving your Bluebook citations involves a few key strategies focused on accuracy, consistency, and staying current with the Bluebook rules. Here's a very short and concise guide tailored for a Litigation Paralegal:

1. Understand the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the general rules, including how to cite cases, statutes, and secondary sources. The Bluebook Online is a great starting point.

2. Stay Current: Bluebook rules can change. Regularly check for updates or new editions to ensure your citations comply with the latest standards.

3. Use Reliable Tools: Consider using citation management tools or software designed for legal professionals. LexisNexis and Westlaw are popular options that include citation features.

4. Practice Consistency: Apply the same citation style throughout a document to maintain professionalism and credibility.

5. Proofread: Double-check your citations for errors. Pay close attention to details like spacing, italics, and abbreviations.

6. Seek Feedback: If possible, have a colleague review your citations. Fresh eyes can catch mistakes you might overlook.

7. Refer to the Bluebook Often: Keep a physical copy of the Bluebook handy or use online resources for quick reference. The Georgetown Law Library provides an excellent guide for understanding and applying Bluebook rules.

8. Attend Workshops or Webinars: Participating in training sessions can enhance your understanding and keep you informed about any changes. Many law libraries and legal institutions offer sessions on legal citation.

9. Learn from Mistakes: Review corrections made by attorneys or editors to your citations. Understanding these corrections can be a valuable learning experience.

10. Join Online Forums or Groups: Platforms like LinkedIn have groups for paralegals where members share tips and advice, including on citation practices.

By focusing on these areas, you can significantly improve your Bluebook citation skills, which is essential for a Litigation Paralegal aiming for precision and professionalism in legal documents.

How to Display Bluebook Citation Skills on Your Resume

11. Deposition Summarization

Deposition summarization is the process of creating concise summaries of witness testimonies obtained during depositions, highlighting key information, facts, and statements relevant to a case, to assist litigation paralegals and attorneys in preparing for trial or settlement negotiations.

Why It's Important

Deposition summarization is crucial for litigation paralegals as it condenses lengthy testimonies into concise, accessible formats, enabling efficient review, case strategy development, and evidence extraction.

How to Improve Deposition Summarization Skills

To improve deposition summarization, a litigation paralegal can follow these concise strategies:

1. Understand the Case: Grasp all elements of the case to identify relevant testimony (NALA).

2. Highlight Key Information: Focus on crucial facts, admissions, inconsistencies, and witness credibility.

3. Use Deposition Summarization Software: Leverage tools like CaseMap or Summation for efficiency and accuracy.

4. Create a Template: Develop a standard format for summaries to ensure consistency (American Bar Association).

5. Practice Active Listening: Enhance your ability to capture important details by actively engaging with the deposition content.

6. Consult with Attorneys: Regularly discuss findings with attorneys to align on case strategies and understand what information is most valuable.

7. Continuous Learning: Stay updated on legal practices and software through resources like LegalTech and Paralegal Today.

By implementing these techniques, a litigation paralegal can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of deposition summarization.

How to Display Deposition Summarization Skills on Your Resume

12. Court Filing

Court filing refers to the process of formally submitting documents to the court for a legal case, which a litigation paralegal often prepares and manages, ensuring all paperwork complies with court rules and deadlines.

Why It's Important

Court filing is crucial for a Litigation Paralegal because it ensures that legal documents are officially submitted to the court, enabling the legal process to proceed, and establishes a record of the case's timeline and actions taken.

How to Improve Court Filing Skills

Improving court filing as a Litigation Paralegal involves several key steps:

1. Stay Updated: Regularly check court rules and procedures, as they can change. Utilize court websites for the latest information.

2. Organize Documents: Ensure all documents are organized and labeled correctly. Tools like Adobe Acrobat can assist in managing PDFs.

3. Double-Check Formatting: Adhere to specific formatting requirements set by the court. Guidelines can often be found on the court's website.

4. Electronic Filing (e-Filing): Familiarize yourself with the e-Filing system used by the court. Many jurisdictions offer e-Filing resources, like PACER.

5. Proofread: Always proofread documents for errors. Spellcheck tools and reading aloud are effective methods.

6. Deadline Management: Use calendar systems such as Google Calendar to track filing deadlines and set reminders.

7. Continuing Education: Enhance your skills through courses and webinars from professional organizations like NALA or NFPA.

8. Seek Feedback: After filing, seek feedback from attorneys on the effectiveness of the filings and look for areas of improvement.

9. Automate Routine Tasks: Use legal software tools like Clio for automating routine tasks and improving efficiency.

10. Confidentiality Compliance: Ensure all filings comply with confidentiality rules and redaction requirements.

Focusing on these areas will help in streamlining the court filing process and enhancing your efficiency as a Litigation Paralegal.

How to Display Court Filing Skills on Your Resume