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Legal Assistant Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

The Legal Assistant will support the Legal Department in Enhanced Family Foster Care programs by providing clerical and administrative support services to help expedite permanency for children. Job ...

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Hardin, Kundla McKeon & Poletto, a full-service litigation law firm, has an excellent opportunity for a full-time legal assistant. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of two years of experience in a ...

Legal Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$60K - $68K/yr

The Junior Legal Assistant will also be responsible for preparing weekly/monthly summaries of new case and developments, tracking various litigation statistics, maintaining matter database, and ...

The Legal Assistant will support the Legal Department in Enhanced Family Foster Care programs by providing clerical and administrative support services to help expedite permanency for children. Job ...

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Legal Assistant

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$42K - $60K/yr

Job Summary Yeung & Associates, PLLC is seeking a full-time Legal Assistant to support our growing practice. This position is ideal for an individual who is intellectually curious about the law ...

Legal Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$61K - $68K/yr

Legal assistants will acquire an understanding of the mechanics of civil litigation, including pleadings and discovery tools. This will be achieved by attending virtual and in-person training ...

Legal Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$61K - $68K/yr

Legal Assistants will acquire an understanding of the mechanics of civil litigation, including pleadings and discovery tools. This will be achieved by attending virtual and in-person training ...

Hodgson Russ LLP, a regional law firm with 230+ attorneys in 10 offices, is seeking a Legal Assistant with experience in Corporate & Finance to join our busy New York City office. In this role, you ...

TITLE: LEGAL PRACTICE ASSISTANT LOCATION: 1325 Avenue of Americas (b/t 53 rd and 54 th street) JOB SUMMARY: Seeking legal practice assistants for our client's Midtown Manhattan office. Support ...

The Department of Probation is seeking a highly motivated individual to fill the Legal Assistant position within the General Counsel unit. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the ...

Regulatory Legal Assistant We are seeking a temp to perm, detail-oriented Regulatory Legal Assistant to support our (re)insurance regulatory and licensing compliance function across U.S. And ...

Hodgson Russ LLP, a regional law firm with 230+ attorneys in 10 offices, is seeking a Legal Assistant with experience in Corporate & Finance to join our busy New York City office. In this role, you ...

The Department of Probation is seeking a highly motivated individual to fill the Legal Assistant position within the General Counsel unit. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the ...

Legal Assistant

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

The Department of Probation is seeking a highly motivated individual to fill the Legal Assistant position within the General Counsel unit. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the ...

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Legal Assistant information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$27.5K

$49.2K

$75.4K

How much do legal assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for legal assistant in Rutherford, NJ is $49,152.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,700.00 and $56,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do you need a legal degree to be a legal assistant?

A legal assistant typically does not need a law degree; most positions require a high school diploma or associate degree, along with strong organizational and communication skills. Some employers may prefer candidates with paralegal certification or relevant coursework, but a full legal degree is generally not required for this role.

What are some common challenges Legal Assistants face when managing multiple cases or attorneys?

Legal Assistants often juggle tasks for several attorneys or handle multiple cases at once, which can be challenging due to competing deadlines and shifting priorities. Staying organized, effectively managing time, and utilizing legal case management software are essential skills to succeed in this fast-paced environment. Clear communication with attorneys and proactive planning help ensure that documentation, filings, and client correspondence are completed accurately and on schedule. Embracing these strategies can help Legal Assistants maintain efficiency and reduce stress.

Is it better to be a legal assistant or paralegal?

A legal assistant and a paralegal are similar roles, but paralegals typically have more advanced training and perform more complex legal tasks under attorney supervision. Paralegals often require certification or formal education, and they may have higher earning potential and greater responsibilities than legal assistants. The choice depends on your education, career goals, and the level of responsibility you seek in a legal support role.

What is the difference between Legal Assistant vs Paralegal?

AspectLegal AssistantParalegal
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but some have certifications like NALAOften holds certifications such as Certified Paralegal (CP)
Work EnvironmentAssist lawyers in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesPerform substantive legal work under attorney supervision in similar settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAdministrative support, document preparation, client communicationLegal research, drafting legal documents, case management

Legal Assistants and Paralegals often work closely in legal settings, but Paralegals typically perform more substantive legal tasks and may hold certifications. Both roles support attorneys in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies, but Paralegals usually have a deeper involvement in legal work.

What are legal assistants?

Legal assistants, also known as paralegals, are professionals who support lawyers by performing a variety of tasks, such as conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing files, and maintaining case management systems. They help ensure that legal processes run smoothly and efficiently, allowing attorneys to focus on more complex legal matters. Legal assistants play a crucial role in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies by handling administrative and substantive legal work under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

What Is a Legal Assistant Job?

Legal assistants help lawyers with their casework, and tasks will vary depending of the size of the firm. Jobs of a legal assistant may include making phone calls, writing emails, researching case facts, organizing documents, and gathering evidence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Legal Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Legal Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of legal terminology, often supported by an associate degree or paralegal certification. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management software, and document drafting tools is typically required. Excellent communication, discretion, and the ability to multitask under pressure make a Legal Assistant stand out. These skills are essential to ensure accurate legal documentation, efficient case management, and effective support for attorneys in a fast-paced legal environment.

Can a paralegal make $100,000?

While most paralegals earn between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, some experienced or specialized paralegals in high-demand areas or with advanced certifications can earn $100,000 or more. Factors influencing salary include location, years of experience, education, and the complexity of legal work performed.

What does it mean to be a legal assistant?

A legal assistant, also known as a paralegal, supports lawyers by preparing legal documents, conducting research, organizing case files, and managing administrative tasks. They often work in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies and may require knowledge of legal procedures and tools like case management software.

Is it better to be a paralegal or legal assistant?

Legal assistants and paralegals are similar roles that support attorneys, but paralegals typically have more specialized training and perform more complex legal tasks. The choice depends on career goals, as paralegals often require certification or formal education, and may have higher earning potential and responsibilities. Both roles require strong organizational skills and knowledge of legal procedures.
What are the most commonly searched types of Legal jobs in Rutherford, NJ? The most popular types of Legal jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What job categories do people searching Legal Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Legal Assistant jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Legal Assistant jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Legal Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Legal Assistant job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,152 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
Legal Assistant

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Good Shepherd Services rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Legal Assistant will support the Legal Department in Enhanced Family Foster Care programs by providing clerical and administrative support services to help expedite permanency for children.

Job Title: Legal Assistant

Reports To: Director of Legal Services, Enhanced Family Foster Care Services

Location: 7 West Burnside Avenue, Bronx, New York 10453

Hours: 35 hours per week; Non- Exempt Position requires staff to be onsite. Hybrid is based on program needs and leadership discretion

Salary Range: 50-55k Based on relevant experience and postgraduate education

Major Duties & Responsibilities
  • Order required documents monthly for each child entering foster care, including birth certificates, putative father registry responses, and Social Security cards.
  • Respond to staff requests and obtain documents such as birth certificates, death certificates, Social Security cards, and certified court orders.
  • Maintain and track birth certificate files, including sign-out logs and timely follow-up for returns.
  • Travel to courthouses/administrative buildings to obtain necessary documentation.
  • Obtain Notary Public certification and notarize permanency hearing (PH) documents, adoption and KinGAP packages, surrenders, young adult statements, and other required documentation.
Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) Responsibilities
  • Review TPR referral forms, case records, and supporting documentation to determine appropriate allegations and draft TPR petitions.
  • Order Putative Father Registry responses upon receipt of TPR referrals.
  • Ensure two original birth certificates are available for each child involved in TPR proceedings.
  • Serve discovery demands and ensure service of petitions to all required parties.
  • Prepare legal documents for substituted service, including orders and affidavits.
  • Conduct or submit diligent searches, utilizing systems such as LexisNexis.
  • Ensure receipt of the Commissioners Notice of Appearance for all TPR cases.
  • Prepare, scan, redact, and distribute case records to counsel.
  • Obtain certified orders for underlying neglect cases.
  • Draft motions, orders to show cause, and related legal documentation for fact-finding proceedings.
  • Maintain status tracking sheets and follow up on subpoenaed records.
  • Obtain and record signed freeing orders or surrenders with the County Clerk.
  • Draft and distribute Notices of Entry for recorded freeing orders.
Qualifications
  • Bachelors degree required.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong typing/computer skills.
  • Minimum of 2 years of legal or child welfare experience preferred.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

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