We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Legal Secretary to join Sidley’s Global Arbitration, Trade, and Advocacy practice group. This is a fast-paced and varied role supporting a dynamic team of attorneys who work on high-profile, international matters. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who exercises sound judgment, demonstrates exceptional organizational skills, and thrives on providing first-class support. Discretion, client service, and adaptability are essential for success in this role.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Coordination & Operational Support
Provide high-level administrative and operational support to attorneys within the practice group.
Manage workflows, track deadlines, and align priorities across multiple projects.
Partner with legal secretaries, paralegals, and other staff to ensure seamless operations.
Anticipate attorney and client needs, taking initiative to resolve issues and enhance efficiency.
Communications & Calendar Management
Maintain attorney calendars, schedule internal/external meetings, and coordinate logistics.
Screen and prioritize emails and calls; draft correspondence where appropriate.
Prepare attorneys for meetings by compiling materials, agendas, and background documents.
Liaise professionally with high-profile clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
Accounting & Billing
Support billing processes, including time entry, review of proformas, and submission of invoices.
Track budgets, prepare financial summaries, and monitor client billing arrangements.
Coordinate with Accounting on utilization reports and compliance with engagement terms.
Assist with new matter intake forms and conflict checks.
Travel Arrangements
Coordinate domestic and international travel (flights, accommodations, itineraries, visas).
Proactively resolve last-minute changes with urgency and professionalism.
Education and/ or Experience:
Required:
3+ years of legal secretarial experience in a professional services or law firm environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and document management systems.
Strong typing and document formatting skills (55+ wpm).
Preferred:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Prior experience in a global law firm and/or supporting a partner.
Other Skills and Abilities:
Problem Solving: Anticipates needs, exercises sound judgment, and manages issues effectively.
Interpersonal Skills: Builds trust and rapport with colleagues, attorneys, and clients.
Ownership & Initiative: Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and committed to operational excellence.
Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication, including professional correspondence.
Discretion: Maintains strict confidentiality with sensitive information.
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The target salary range for this role is:
$72,000 - $90,000 if located in Washington, D.C.Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities above satisfactorily and meet the requirements. The requirements listed above are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email [email protected] (current employees should contact Human Resources).
Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Skills Required
- 3+ years of legal secretarial experience in a professional services or law firm environment
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, and document management systems
- Strong typing and document formatting skills (55+ wpm)
- Discretion and ability to maintain strict confidentiality with sensitive information
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, including professional correspondence
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Prior experience in a global law firm and/or supporting a partner
What We Do
Sidley is an elite global law firm with approximately 2,300 lawyers and 21 offices worldwide. It advises clients on complex transactional, restructuring, crisis management, investigation, regulatory, and litigation matters. Its lawyers and business professionals work across commercial, regulatory, and financial centers, using cross-border legal expertise and cultural awareness to deliver innovative strategies and clarity for clients navigating a dynamic global business environment.
