Paralegal II - Litigation

About Kirkland & Ellis

At Kirkland & Ellis, we don’t just meet the standard for legal excellence — we set it. Our culture is built on teamwork, ingenuity and an unwavering commitment to continuous growth. We tackle the most sophisticated legal challenges with bold ideas and innovative solutions, powered by the exceptional experience and ambition of our 7,000+ people, including 4,000+ attorneys, across 22 offices worldwide. Our dedicated professionals share our lawyers’ commitment to excellence and show up each day to do meaningful work that helps drive global business, investment and innovation forward.

What You’ll Do

The Litigation Paralegal II support case teams in all phases of the litigation practice, from pre-complaint to trial and appeal. The Litigation Paralegal II will be responsible for managing all details throughout every phase of trial from investigations, pleadings, discovery, and attendance.  Ability to work in a collaborative team environment with strong attention to detail. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

Manages document production processes:

• Assists with the collection of material from client, opposing parties, and third parties (hard copies, electronic data, physical evidence)
• Maintains chain of custody
• Manages logistics of production of documents - hard copy, images, native

Substantive Research:

• Analyzes documents and materials
• Researches rules of procedure for relevant court venues

Coordinates preparation and filing of briefs and legal documents:

• Drafts routine filings (e.g. attorney appearances, notices of filings, notices of motions)
• Checks legal cites for proper format, content and accuracy (Westlaw, Lexis; Blue Book)
• Compiles appendices and exhibits
• Manages service of process; files with court and serves on parties; coordinates with local counsel

Manages trial and hearing preparation and support:

• Compiles and tracks trial exhibits
• Prepares pretrial documents
• Manages trial transcripts

OTHER FUNCTIONS 

• Any other functions/duties as assigned by management.

What You’ll Bring

Education, Work Experience, Skills

The ideal candidate will possess 8-10 years of experience focusing on complex litigation cases, including managing large discovery, preparing for trial, and managing trial support.  Must have high-level experience with a range of litigation support applications.  Additional qualifications include excellent analytical and organizational abilities, solid communication and management skills, creativity, initiative, and ability to work in a team environment.  Bachelor’s degree required.  Flexibility to accommodate for travel and overtime is required.  Ability to lift up to 25 pounds is required.

Technologies/Software

• MS Office proficiency including Excel and DMS management required.  Intermediate experience relating to Relativity; TextMap, Westlaw;
• Electronic filing and Pacer Pro proficiency required

Compensation

The base salary range below represents the low and high end of the salary range for this position in Chicago. This range may differ based on your geographic location and cost of living considerations. At Kirkland & Ellis, we consider compensation more than just a base salary. We offer an exceptional range of flexible benefits including comprehensive healthcare, paid time off, and retirement. We also offer personal support and tailored learning and development opportunities all designed to help you realize your full potential both in life and at work.

Compensation Range:

• Chicago: $100,000 - $145,000

How to Apply

Thank you for your interest in Kirkland & Ellis LLP. To complete an application and submit your resume, please click "Apply Now."

Don't meet every job requirement? That's okay! If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly fit every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right person for this role or others at Kirkland.

Equal Employment Opportunity

All employment decisions, including the recruiting, hiring, placement, training availability, promotion, compensation, evaluation, disciplinary actions, and termination of employment (if necessary) are made without regard to the employee’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy or childbirth, personal appearance, family responsibilities, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, political affiliation, source of income, place of residence, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military veteran status, unfavorable discharge from military service, physical or mental disability, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law. #LI-Hybrid #LI-SB1