BERNADETTE E. WILLIAMS

Chicago, IL ***** 773-***-**** addw17@r.postjobfree.com

PARALEGAL PROFESSIONAL

Detail-oriented individual with a strong work ethic and high standards who is able to conduct legal business professionally within a team and with minimal guidance from attorneys and supervisors.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Work cooperatively with a team to achieve objectives.

Able to use case management and document management systems.

Proficient in Microsoft Office, Lexis, Westlaw, Textmap, Adobe, Concordance, Pacer, PeopleSoft.

Organizational and planning skills for compiling, analyzing and managing information.

Usage of office equipment.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Kirkland & Ellis, LLP, Chicago, IL

Jr. Paralegal, 2016 – 12/31/2019

Case Assistant, 05/1987 – 2016

Responsible for support and assistance to attorneys before, during and after the trial of litigation cases:

Managed the files (“case record”) of case matters - correspondence, memos, e-mail, pleadings, transcripts, client documents, attorney work product, etc.

Assisted in all phases of the discovery process which entailed the collection and production of materials. Reviewed and analyzed documents to code/designate document status; prepared document tracking log, key and privileged document indices; set up databases to house client, opponent and third party documents, and drafted document request and interrogatory responses.

Performed factual research; compiled information into charts, indices and chronologies; researched prior testimony and publication of experts; researched rules of procedures for relevant court per case matter.

Preparation and filing of legal briefs and legal documents: Checked legal and fact cites for proper format; compiled appendices and exhibits; coordinated the transmittal of filings to client and the court; drafted routine filings i.e. subpoenas, notice of filings and, notice of motions, attorney appearance, attorney change of address, pro hac vice applications.

Deposition Preparation: Prepared witness, subject files, witness outlines and compiled exhibits for depositions; coordinated with court reporters the collection and compilation of deposition transcripts, exhibits, videos and attorney notes for import to database.

Trial and hearing preparation: Compiled and tracked trial exhibits; prepared pretrial documents and prepared materials as needed throughout trial; coordinated trial closure and breakdown and start if indicated preparation for appeal.

Had the opportunity to assist the firm on pro bono projects; Received Pro Bono Service Award in 2018

Participated in Kirkland’s attorney deposition and trial training (KITA) programs.

EDUCATION TRAINING

Bachelor of Arts, Beloit College, Beloit, WI

Year Abroad at the University Haute Bretagne, Rennes, France

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