Job Description

Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP, a global Am Law 50 firm, is seeking a Litigation Secretary/Practice Specialist I based in our Chicago office.

Sheppard Mullin is hiring an experienced, well-organized Litigation Practice Specialist to support litigation attorneys and paralegals in all aspects of cases from initial filing through trial and appeal. This includes assisting with preparing and filing legal documents, calendar and travel management, case management, and billing/expense support. The job requires extensive knowledge of litigation, trial procedures, federal, state and appellate court rules and procedures. Technical, organizational, and administrative skills are necessary to handle the variety of duties and responsibilities outlined below. The position handles multiple projects, often in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, requiring prioritization and flexibility. Collaboration with firm personnel at all levels is integral to the role.



The Practice Specialist will provide litigation support for attorneys, assistants, and paralegals throughout our domestic offices. The job requires extensive knowledge of litigation, trial procedures, federal, state and appellate court rules and procedures. Technical, organizational, and administrative skills are necessary to handle the variety of duties and responsibilities outlined below. The position handles multiple projects, often in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, requiring prioritization and flexibility. Collaboration with firm personnel at all levels is integral to the role.

Essential Job Functions

Format, edit, and manage legal documents, including pleadings and discovery. Schedule and coordinate court dates, filing deadlines, travel arrangements, and related planning. Conduct conflict checks and handle new matters, including preparing engagement letters and managing client and case documents. Work closely with attorneys and paralegals to prepare and file official correspondence using the Firm's standards and procedures. Communicate regularly with the team. Double check work product before presenting to attorney for review and again before sending or filing. Must be available and able to work during core business hours.

Qualifications and Experience

Required Qualifications:

A minimum of 4-7 years of litigation experience working in a law firm. A minimum of 3 years of litigation experience in a law firm. Experience with document productions and e-discovery. Strong working knowledge of Superior and Federal Courts rules and procedures. Ability to handle multiple projects with changing priorities while working independently in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work overtime, evenings, and weekends, as needed. Possess excellent spelling, grammar, and punctuation skills. Strong attention to detail, ability to prioritize tasks, and excellent time management skills to meet deadlines.

Education and/or Experience

A high school diploma or equivalent is required, plus substantial and relevant work experience. A bachelor's degree or some college is preferred.

License and Certification

A secretarial certification or ABA approved paralegal certification is preferred.

Computer/Software Knowledge

Must have proficiency in Windows 10, Microsoft Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, Zoom, and Teams, and experience working with a document management system. Must be able to quickly learn new skills and systems.

Work Environment

This position requires you to work physically in the Chicago office Monday-Friday. Overtime may be required as the job duties demand.
Sheppard Mullin is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, protected medical condition, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.

Req: #2025-3261

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