Paralegal/Legal Assistant

Firm Summary

Patterson & O’Neill is a leading law firm representing property owners, real estate developers, and nonprofit organizations in a wide variety of land use matters, including building permits, environmental law, real estate disputes, and cutting-edge litigation using state housing laws. Our work has a real and lasting impact on our clients' lives and the public good.

We value long-term relationships with our clients and team members, as well as a supportive culture where we love coming to work.

Position Summary

The paralegal/legal assistant will provide support to the firm’s clients and attorneys and will work in a dynamic environment under the supervision of the firm's shareholders. Strong interpersonal skills, excellent written and verbal communication, and the ability to work independently and on a team are important qualifications.

The paralegal/legal assistant must effectively manage multiple responsibilities to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Manage attorneys' calendars and track litigation deadlines
• File documents in courts across California
• Communicate with clients, potential clients, and government agencies
• Draft, format, proofread, and finalize documents
• Provide administrative support
• Manage vendors
• Implement systems and procedures
• Oversee special projects

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• Substantial experience with litigation filings
• Experience as a paralegal or legal assistant
• Strong organizational skills and careful attention to detail
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• A paralegal certificate is desirable but not mandatory

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• FSA
• Commuter benefits

Desired Attributes

• Strong interpersonal skills and a client-facing orientation.
• Professional, dependable, organized and detail-oriented.
• Able to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively with attorneys and staff.
• Exercises sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential information.
• Resourceful, proactive, and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to accuracy, organization, and follow-through, especially when managing competing priorities or deadlines.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

This is primarily an in-person position that requires regular in-office attendance, with some hybrid flexibility available after onboarding as business and firm needs permit.

• Ability to work at a desk for extended periods while performing computer-based and administrative tasks.
• Regular use of a computer and standard office equipment.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry files, office supplies, and packages weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to work a 40-hour work week, with additional hours as needed to meet firm and client needs.

Overtime Pay Status

Non-Exempt

Equal Employment Opportunity and Fair Chance Ordinance

The Firm is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment.