Foster Swift Collins & Smith

Description:

Paralegal – Litigation Practice Group
Location: Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith P.C.

Foster, Swift, Collins & Smith P.C. is seeking an experienced Litigation Paralegal to join our Litigation Practice Group. This full-time position is ideal for a highly organized legal professional with experience managing litigation files, drafting legal documents, conducting legal research, coordinating discovery, and supporting attorneys through all phases of litigation.

The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting attorneys on complex litigation matters through effective case management, legal research, document preparation, discovery coordination, court filings, trial preparation, and client communication.

A minimum of five (5) years of litigation paralegal experience is required. Experience in civil defense litigation is strongly preferred. Applicants without litigation paralegal experience will not be considered.

Case Management & Client Support

• Manage assigned litigation files from intake through resolution
• Develop case plans, litigation timelines, and client status reports
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, gathering information and maintaining regular communication
• Review files for outstanding discovery and ensure cases are prepared for hearings, depositions, mediation, and trial

Legal Research & Analysis

• Conduct legal and factual research
• Prepare legal memoranda, reports, and case summaries for attorney review
• Assemble chronologies of key documents to support litigation strategy and trial preparation

Legal Drafting & Document Preparation

• Draft complaints, motions, discovery requests and responses, affidavits, subpoenas, correspondence, and trial preparation materials
• Ensure legal documents comply with court rules, filing requirements, and applicable deadlines

Discovery & Trial Preparation

• Coordinate all phases of the discovery process
• Draft and respond to discovery requests
• Prepare deposition summaries, exhibits, trial notebooks, and courtroom materials
• Process subpoenas for medical, employment, workers' compensation, and other records
• Organize, review, and summarize medical records and other case-related documents
• Prepare materials for expert witness review and trial presentation

Expert Witness Coordination

• Coordinate Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) and communicate with expert witnesses regarding records, reports, scheduling, and testimony

Court Filings & Docket Management

• Prepare and electronically file pleadings and other legal documents with Michigan state and federal courts
• Maintain litigation calendars and accurately track court deadlines, hearings, and appearances

Technology & Billing

• Utilize Microsoft Office, document management systems, litigation support software, electronic filing platforms, and timekeeping software
• Accurately record billable time and assist attorneys with pre-bill review

Professional Collaboration

• Partner with attorneys, paralegals, and legal support staff to provide exceptional client service and support successful litigation outcomes
• Maintain a proactive, organized, and team-oriented approach to managing complex litigation matters

Why Join Foster Swift?

Comprehensive Benefits

• Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Company-paid life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Voluntary benefit options to support your individual needs

Professional Environment

• Join one of Michigan's most respected law firms with more than 100 years of legal excellence
• Work alongside experienced attorneys and legal professionals in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Support sophisticated civil litigation matters while building your professional skills and career
• Opportunities to work with clients throughout Michigan from our offices in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Southfield, and Holland

Commitment to Diversity

Foster Swift is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other status protected by applicable laws

Apply Today

If you're an experienced Litigation Paralegal, Civil Litigation Paralegal, or Insurance Defense Paralegal looking to make a meaningful impact with one of Michigan's premier law firms, we encourage you to apply today and become part of Foster Swift's legacy of excellence.

Requirements:

Education:
Associate's or Bachelor's degree, completion of an ABA-approved Paralegal program or Paralegal certificate, or an equivalent combination of applicable education and relevant experience is strongly preferred

Experience:
Minimum of five (5) years of litigation paralegal experience required; experience in civil defense litigation, insurance defense, or complex civil litigation is strongly preferred

Skills:

• Strong knowledge of civil litigation procedures, court rules, and legal terminology
• Excellent legal writing, proofreading, legal research, and document drafting skills
• Experience managing multiple litigation matters while meeting court deadlines and attorney expectations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, electronic court filing (eFiling), document management systems, and legal technology platforms
• Experience with discovery, trial preparation, deposition summaries, medical record review, and case management
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and commitment to outstanding client service
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with attorneys, paralegals, and support staff in a fast-paced environment