Pre-Law Paralegal (2023)
Kostelanetz LLP’s pre-law paralegals enjoy a uniquely immersive experience by working closely with our lawyers on a daily basis and attending our frequent in-house training sessions, which include overviews of law school courses (such as torts, contracts, constitutional law, civil procedure, criminal law, and property law) and advice on how to “brief” court opinions and “outline” law school classes. Our pre-law paralegals interact with the firm’s clients, and many of them have shared by-lines with our lawyers in published articles. The responsibilities of the paralegal position include conducting legal research and document review, providing legal and litigation support, and assisting with general administrative work, under the supervision of attorneys.
The starting salary for this position is $70,000 per year, based on a 35-hour workweek. Pre-law paralegals are eligible for end-of-year bonuses, which are typically $2,000, and, after approximately one year in the program, are eligible for a salary increase to a base of $77,000.
We seek aspiring legal professionals with strong academic credentials who have outstanding writing, research, and oral communication skills. Ideal candidates are organized and friendly individuals who are capable of handling multiple projects at once, meeting deadlines, and working well both independently and on a team.
Candidates should have exceptional computer skills and be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with website and social media management is welcomed. Accounting experience may also be useful for some positions.
The ideal candidate is extremely high-performing in their respective college or university academic program and typically possesses a grade point average of 3.7 or above. In addition, ideal candidates are able to clearly articulate through their application materials an interest in the law or in law-related activities (e.g., via debate, mock trial, or law journal experience, completion of internships at law firms or other relevant organizations, or research projects with professors).
Strong writing and revising skills are also crucial for this position. Prior to application submission, candidates should thoroughly review their materials, paying special attention to typographical mistakes, grammatical errors, and the like.
At our firm, we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion contribute to a safe and welcoming environment for our employees and strengthen our firm. We welcome applications from women, people of color, LGBTQ+ people, persons with disabilities, people from low-income backgrounds, and veterans. Applications from people who are members of underrepresented and/or marginalized communities are highly encouraged.
The Kostelanetz Pre-Law Paralegal Program is specifically designed to occur across a two-year period, after college (or a secondary degree-seeking program) and before law school. Prior to applying, prospective candidates should consider whether there are any factors that may inhibit their ability to remain in the program for a full two years. Candidates who do not expect to remain in the program for two years are advised not to apply.
Kostelanetz LLP does not sponsor H1-B or other visas for pre-law paralegals or candidates. While there may be times when remote work is possible, at this time, we are seeking candidates who are willing to work, on-site, in one of our two offices.
Qualified candidates should submit PDF copies of their cover letter, resume, transcript (unofficial is acceptable), and writing sample. Please direct all questions about the Pre-Law Paralegal Program and inquiries regarding application status to recruiting@kflaw.com.
Applications will be reviewed and positions will be filled on a rolling basis. The application period officially ends on Sunday, January 15th 2023, but applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible as open positions may be filled before that date. Applicants selected for additional consideration should generally expect to be contacted by the end of January. See here for more information regarding our firm or our Pre-Law Paralegal Program.