Summary

The Legal Assistant provides administrative and clerical support to attorneys to ensure the efficient operation of the firm. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, professionalism, and the ability to handle confidential information. With attorney oversight, the Legal Assistant assists with document preparation, client communication, scheduling, and general office support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Perform Duties with appropriate attorney oversight

· Prepare, proofread, and format legal documents, correspondence, pleadings, and filings

· File documents with courts and administrative agencies (electronic and physical filings)

· Maintain and organize client files, both electronic and paper

· Assist attorneys with managing calendars, and with scheduling meetings, hearings, and deadlines

· Communicate professionally with clients, court personnel, and opposing counsel

· Assist attorneys with tracking deadlines and with docketing and case management

· Assist with time entry, billing support, and expense tracking as needed

· Open and close client files in accordance with firm procedures

· Perform general administrative duties including copying, scanning, and mailing

· Support attorneys with trial preparation, hearings, and client meetings as requested

· Maintain confidentiality of client and firm information at all times

· Follow firm policies related to client privacy and ethical obligations

 Qualifications

· High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree preferred

· Strong written and verbal communication skills

· Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel) software preferred

· Attention to detail and strong proofreading skills

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Working Conditions 

Work is performed in a standard office environment with minimal exposure to excessive noise, dust, temperature extremes, or other environmental factors.

Core Competencies

· Professionalism and discretion

· Time management and reliability

· Client service orientation

· Adaptability and teamwork

Firm Profile:

With more than 40 attorneys, Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith P.C. is a full-service law firm with several well-established practice groups. The firm has been providing legal services since 1887. With offices in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Sioux Center and Sheldon, Iowa, our clients are located in the upper Midwest, and many operate on a national and international basis. Our attorneys are experienced, knowledgeable, and committed to providing high-quality legal representation. We provide clients with representation ranging from business to litigation to family and personal needs. We are proud of our culture of collaboration and work efficiently to resolve the challenge at hand. We proudly offer legal services rooted in the integrity and dedication that launched the firm nearly 140 years ago.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith P.C. provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to age, race, color, creed, disability, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, or genetic information. In addition to federal law requirements, Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith P.C. complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.