LEGAL SECRETARY I in San Diego, California at Cooperative of American Physicians Insurance Co. I

OVERVIEW: Performs entry-level secretarial and administrative support for the Legal Department across all regions. Provides administrative assistance to attorneys and legal staff while handling routine legal secretarial responsibilities with increasing independence. This position is designed for individuals with prior administrative or secretarial experience who are developing knowledge of legal procedures, terminology, and court processes while contributing to the day-to-day operations of the department..

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides clerical, secretarial, and administrative support to attorneys and the Legal Department.
• Prepares, formats, proofreads, and processes legal correspondence, reports, forms, pleadings, and other legal documents.
• Maintains physical and electronic legal files in accordance with department records management procedures.
• Coordinates attorney calendars, schedules meetings, hearings, depositions, and other appointments.
• Answers telephone calls, greets visitors, responds to routine inquiries, and directs requests to appropriate personnel.
• Receives, distributes, and processes incoming and outgoing mail, email, and legal documents.
• Enters and maintains data in case management systems, databases, and other departmental records.
• Assists with court filings and other legal processes while becoming familiar with applicable court rules, filing requirements, and legal terminology.
• Operates standard office equipment and utilizes Microsoft Office applications, document management systems, and case management software.
• Maintains confidentiality of legal matters and sensitive information at all times.
• Organizes work effectively, prioritizes assignments, and meets established deadlines.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Participates in department and company projects as requested.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or GED required.
• One (1) to three (3) years of administrative, secretarial, or office support experience required; experience in a legal or professional office environment is preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Working knowledge of general office procedures and administrative practices.
• Ability to learn legal terminology, legal office procedures, court rules, and filing requirements.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and demonstrate initiative.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Teams, and Excel) and the ability to learn department-specific software applications.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.