Not sure what kind of career you’re looking for? Once a month, we highlight a job on our blog so you can learn more about the options that are available. This month, we’re talking about legal secretary positions, which have a projected growth rate of 12% from 2010 to 2020.
What does a legal secretary do?
A legal secretary supports attorneys and paralegals in a law office. There are clerical duties like filing (paper or electronic files), making sure incoming mail (paper or email) gets to the right person, answering mail (paper or email), and operating basic office equipment. There are also more specialized tasks like proofreading legal documents (summonses, motions, subpoenas, or complaints) and helping with research by verifying quotes and citations in legal briefs. You may also be asked to take on other tasks such as keeping a stockroom or corporate library, or ordering office supplies.
What skills does a legal secretary need?
Because you will be dealing with legal documents, excellent grammar and the ability to proofread your work and others is of the utmost importance. Due to the sensitive nature of the information you’ll be working with on a daily basis, the ability to maintain confidentiality is a must. Also, because it’s a secretarial job, you’ll need clerical skills like word processing, spreadsheets, maintaining an office schedule and setting appointments and meetings.
Even if you haven’t worked as a legal secretary before, there are many skills that you may currently have that can be applied in this position. For example, if you have worked as a medical secretary, you would be able to utilize much of your terminology and billing experience in a law firm setting. The skills and experience that you may have gained in another industry or position are sure to assist as a legal secretary.
What kind of opportunities are there for advancement?
The office experience you gain may make you eligible for a promotion to office manager. It’s also possible to become a paralegal with additional training.
Does this sound like a job you want? Get in touch with Key Resource Group so we can help get you started on a new career path!