Legal Secretary/Paralegal

Applicant workers compensation law firm looking to hire a full time legal secretary who is bright, experienced, competent, reliable, a self-starter with a "can-do" attitude to join our team. The qualified candidate MUST have familiarity with all aspects of Workers' Compensation procedures such as: Filing for PQME Panels, Scheduling AME & PQME exams, Drafting Petitions/Objections, Advocacy Letters, MPN Search, setting doctors appointments, giving client's status updates, etc.

The legal secretary will process the file from beginning through settlement.The Legal Assistant will work directly with and support the assigned Workers’ Compensation Attorney/Hearing Representative. In addition, the Legal Assistant will work with other members of the Workers’ Compensation department, as well as other departments within the Firm. The Legal Assistant will be responsible for case management of assigned caseload. In addition, the Legal Assistant must be highly organized, possess strong critical thinking skills, excellent attention to detail, and solid communication skills.

Primary duties/responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Along with handling attorney, manage large case load from beginning until we and/or client have received settlement;

Process new intake files by making initial contact with the client, verifying intake packet with the client, opening the file on the Firm’s case management software, sending representation/opening letters, setting up initial medical appointment, obtaining subpoena records, etc.;

Answer telephone calls/emails from clients, insurance companies, defense counsel, doctors and medical facilities, and any other parties associated with the case;

Medically manage the cases by scheduling medical appointments, requesting treating physician changes, setting AME’s/PQME evaluation appointments; etc.;

Follow up with doctors for reports or status;

Review pertaining correspondence for each case;

Keep files up to date with medical evidence by obtaining medical reports;

Along with handling attorney, review medical reports and serve PTP’s with PQME/AME reports for further treatment or if client is P&S;

Ensure client is receiving all Workers’ Compensation benefits they are entitled to;

Request doctor panels for case development;

Prepare files for hearings, trials/MSC/PC/SC/CX and depositions by writing case summaries, creating medical index, preparing trial exhibit, etc.;

Complete IMR application and send medical reports to IMR;

Object to medical reports as requested by attorney;

Shrink file by eliminating unnecessary documents that have already been scanned in the electronic file;

Send out files for subbed out cases;

Enter any and all notes relating to each case on the Firm’s case management software;

Alert the Team Lead when defense counsel/adjusters have not responded to requests for medical treatment or benefits and/or when good faith efforts have been exhausted;

Maintain open lines of commutation with client to improve the Firm’s overall client retention; and

Perform other duties as assigned by Management and/or Team Leaders.

Competencies/Skills:

Active, acute knowledge of Workers' Compensation laws and procedures;

Active, acute understanding of claims filing process;

Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with a high degree of discretion and tact;

Ability to communicate effectively, in English and Spanish, with a range of individuals;

Ability to manage their time and multi-task effectively;

Ability to maintain composure and professionalism under pressure;

Possess strong organizational, analytical, and clerical skills

Knowledge of medical and similar issues inherent in Workers’ Compensation cases; and

Computer skills such as MS Office, Case management software’s, and on-line research tools.

This position requires physical activity including but not limited to bending, stooping, repetitive motion, and lifting of up to 20 pounds. This position may also require sitting for prolonged periods of time.

Qualifications:

Minimum 1 – 2 years’ experience working in a Worker’s Compensation law firm;

Must have good familiarity with Workers’ Compensation terminology;

Experience with A1 Law case management software is a plus

Demonstrates and takes initiative and has compassion for those requiring our services;

Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills; and

Bilingual, fluent in English/Spanish

Please send your resume and provide your desired salary when applying.