A well-crafted litigation paralegal resume is your gateway to success in the dynamic legal field.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview, featuring a polished resume sample that highlights the key skills and qualifications needed for this role. You’ll find essential tips on formatting, content, and presentation to ensure your resume stands out and effectively demonstrates your expertise.
Litigation Paralegal Resume Example
John Doe
1234 Elm Street
Orlando, FL 32801
(555) 123-4567
[email protected]
linkedin.com/in/johndoe
Summary
Detail-oriented and highly organized litigation paralegal with over 5 years of experience in legal support and case management. Expertise in conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, and supporting trial preparation, contributing to a 25% increase in successful case outcomes. Proven ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously while ensuring compliance with legal procedures.
Professional Experience
Litigation Paralegal
Smith & Associates Law Firm, Orlando, FL
June 2019 – Present
- Assist attorneys in preparing for trial by gathering evidence and creating exhibits, resulting in a 30% improvement in trial efficiency.
- Conduct thorough legal research on relevant case laws and statutes, achieving 15 successful motions filed in court.
- Draft and file over 150 pleadings, motions, and discovery requests annually with a 98% accuracy rate.
- Manage case files for a caseload of over 30 active cases, ensuring all documentation is current and accurate.
- Collaborate with clients, witnesses, and experts for testimony preparation, enhancing client satisfaction scores by 20%.
Paralegal Intern
Johnson & Roberts Attorneys, Orlando, FL
January 2018 – May 2019
- Assisted with document review and case organization for civil litigation matters, contributing to a 40% reduction in case turnaround time.
- Helped prepare over 20 deposition summaries and trial binders, supporting attorneys in successful case presentations.
- Conducted legal research and compiled findings into reports, resulting in 10 favorable case outcomes.
- Maintained and updated case management systems, improving tracking timelines by 5 days.
Certifications
- Certified Paralegal (CP) – National Association of Legal Assistants, 2020
- Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) in Litigation – NALA, 2021
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Graduated May 2018
Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Valencia College, Orlando, FL
Completed December 2019
Skills
- Legal Research & Writing
- Document Preparation & Review
- Case Management
- Trial Preparation
- eDiscovery & Litigation Support
- Strong Communication Skills
- Time Management & Organization
- Proficient in Clio and Westlaw
Professional Affiliations
- Member of the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- Member of the Florida Paralegal Association (FPA)
References
Available upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions / Writing Guide
1. What should be included in a litigation paralegal resume?
A litigation paralegal resume should include essential sections such as contact information, a summary statement, professional experience, certifications, education, skills, professional affiliations, and references. Each section should clearly highlight relevant qualifications and experiences.
2. How should I format my litigation paralegal resume?
Use a clean, professional format with clear headings and bullet points for easy readability. Consistent font size and style are essential. Ensure that your resume is well-organized, typically starting with a summary, followed by experience, education, and skills.
3. What kind of experience should I list?
Focus on relevant legal experience such as roles held in law firms, internships, or other legal environments. Highlight specific responsibilities, accomplishments (like successful motions filed), and any quantitative metrics (such as case outcomes or efficiency improvements) that demonstrate your impact.
4. Is it necessary to have certifications?
While not mandatory, certifications like Certified Paralegal (CP) or Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) can significantly enhance your resume. They demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your expertise in specific areas of paralegal work, which can make you a more competitive candidate.
5. How can I make my resume stand out?
To make your resume stand out, tailor it to the job description by using relevant keywords and phrasing. Highlight specific achievements and contributions in previous roles, showcasing how you added value to past employers. Additionally, include technical skills, particularly in legal software, to demonstrate your proficiency in tools commonly used in the industry.
6. Should I include references on my resume?
It is not necessary to include references directly on your resume. You can simply state “Available upon request.” This approach gives you the opportunity to inform the individual providing the reference in advance.
7. How long should my litigation paralegal resume be?
Aim for one page if you have less than 10 years of experience. For those with more extensive backgrounds, two pages may be acceptable. Make sure every detail is relevant and contributes meaningfully to your qualifications.
8. Can I include volunteer work or relevant coursework?
Absolutely! Volunteer work or relevant coursework can provide insights into your skills and commitment to the legal field. Be sure to mention any specific tasks or skills mastered that relate to the litigation paralegal role.
9. What skills are essential for a litigation paralegal?
Essential skills include:
- Legal research and writing
- Document preparation and review
- Case management
- Trial preparation
- eDiscovery and litigation support
- Strong communication skills
- Time management and organization
- Proficiency in legal software like Clio and Westlaw
10. How should I handle gaps in my employment history?
If you have gaps in your employment, consider using a functional resume format that emphasizes skills and achievements over chronological work history. If applicable, briefly explain any gaps in your cover letter or during an interview, focusing on what you learned or how you stayed engaged with the field during that time.