Job Description
1) Client Intake & Initial Case Setup
Gather detailed client background: marriage date, separation date, children’s information, income, assets, debts.
Explain basic case process (not legal advice) and manage expectations on timelines.
Prepare, send, and follow up on client questionnaires and document requests.
Open new matters in Clio Manage.
Ensure conflict checks are cleared.
2) Drafting & Filing Court Documents
Draft Petitions (FL-100), Responses (FL-120), Summons (FL-110).
Prepare UCCJEA Declarations (FL-105) when children are involved.
Draft and file Income & Expense Declarations (FL-150), Schedules of Assets and Debts (FL-142).
Prepare Requests for Orders (RFOs) for custody, support, and attorney’s fees.
Draft declarations supporting or opposing motions.
Prepare Stipulations and Orders when parties agree.
Draft Proofs of Service (FL-115) and file with the court.
Draft subpoenas for financial or third-party records.
Prepare trial briefs, witness lists, and exhibit lists.
3) Financial & Discovery Work
Organize and analyze financial documents: pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements.
Calculate preliminary child and spousal support using DissoMaster.
Prepare or respond to discovery: Form Interrogatories, Special Interrogatories, Requests for Production.
Track deadlines for discovery responses.
Draft meet and confer letters if opposing counsel does not comply.
Prepare motions to compel discovery, if necessary.
4) Calendar & Case Management
Calendar all deadlines, hearings, and filing dates in Clio.
Track service dates and statutory response times.
Monitor upcoming deadlines for disclosures, discovery, and trial documents.
Coordinate service of documents (in-person, by mail, or electronically).
Ensure clients meet disclosure deadlines to avoid sanctions.
5) Hearing & Trial Preparation
Assemble and tab trial binders with exhibits and declarations.
Prepare witness binders.
Coordinate with court reporters, process servers, and expert witnesses.
Arrange for delivery of courtesy copies to the court.
Draft Notices of Lodgment, trial briefs, and exhibit lists.
Prepare and deliver chambers or courtesy copies as required by local rules.
6) Client & Opposing Counsel Communication
Maintain regular communication with clients about upcoming tasks and deadlines.
Relay attorney instructions clearly (no legal advice).
Communicate with opposing counsel to coordinate stipulations or continuances.
Document all communications in Clio for accurate record-keeping.
7) Billing & Timekeeping
Record billable time daily in Clio Manage.
Track costs advanced on behalf of the client (e.g., filing fees, service fees).
Assist in preparing client invoices by reviewing time entries for accuracy.
8) Case Closeout
Confirm that Final Judgment packet is complete (FL-180, FL-190).
Draft Notices of Entry of Judgment.
Archive closed files according to the firm’s retention policy.
Ensure client receives copies of all final orders.
Required Qualifications
Prior paralegal experience in family law- non negotiable.
Extensive knowledge of California discovery rules and procedures.
Proven experience drafting motions and pleadings.
Bilingual in English and Spanish – non-negotiable.
Strong attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and ability to work independently.
Proficiency in legal software and Microsoft Office Suite.
Benefits
Competitive pay based on experience
Paid time off and holidays
Opportunities for growth and development within the firm
Full-time