Job Responsibilities
Providing secretarial support to usually two or three attorneys of various skill
levels as well as support provided to any office staff. Responsibilities include
many different tasks such as typing various documents, letters, memos, briefs,
forms.
Distributing the mail on a daily basis. Calling clients, courts, services, etc.
Making travel arrangements, setting up conferences, ordering lunch, etc. Filing
documents with the many courts around the bay area so cases are kept timely.
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Uppers
The best part of this career is that its usually different every day. Its
definitely not boring. You never know what is going to pop up and become a
priority that day or need expertise assistance in making sure the clients are
kept happy. Also doing a job well and getting kudos for that assistance is a big
plus in giving you a lift.
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Downers
Working with attorneys can be quite the challenge but in the big picture, it can
be worth while when you are recognized for your efforts and skilled talents by a
big partner of the firm.
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Lifestyle
Raising a family can be hard at times since you're not always sure as to when
you may have to stay late or come in on weekends to help keep the case going in
the right direction and attorneys are adequately being assisted if needed.
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Compensation
Compensation for being a legal secretary can be really good. You can reach a
high of $75,000 or more if you work for the right firm or attorneys. Benefits
are usually very good as well with full medical, dental, vision, 401k, etc. being
provided.
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Advice to Jobseekers
Give a lot of thought to this career and the demands it will make of you before
making the choice to try it out. There is a level of commitment one needs to
have in order to survive this role played in an office or firm of attorneys. Its
not always easy where the many hats that might be required by the attorneys and
there can be major office politics between staff and management that can end up
putting a damper on one's love for this career
path.
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