Legal Assistant / Paralegal (Military & Security Clearance Law)

Overview Matthew Thomas Law, PLLC is a boutique law firm focused on military law, security clearance defense, federal suitability, and national security matters. We represent military service members, federal employees, government contractors, and applicants facing some of the most significant career challenges of their lives. We are seeking a highly organized, proactive, and detail-oriented Legal Assistant / Paralegal to become an integral part of our growing practice. This position goes beyond traditional administrative work. You will serve as the primary operational support for the firm's owner, helping ensure that every client receives exceptional service while keeping complex legal matters organized and moving forward. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving problems before they become emergencies, communicates professionally, and takes ownership of their work. Primary Responsibilities Case Management Maintain organized and up-to-date electronic case files. Track filing deadlines, Statements of Reasons (SOR) response deadlines, appeal deadlines, hearing dates, and other critical case milestones. Monitor case progress and proactively identify upcoming deadlines well in advance. Prepare and organize exhibits, hearing notebooks, and supporting documentation. Maintain document management systems and ensure files are complete and accurately organized. Legal Support Conduct legal research under attorney supervision. Draft routine correspondence, legal memoranda, motions, discovery responses, and other legal documents. Perform cite-checking and proofread legal filings for accuracy and consistency. Assist with exhibit preparation and document organization for hearings and administrative proceedings. Support preparation for hearings before agencies including DOHA, DCSA, military administrative boards, and other federal adjudicative bodies. Administrative Support Coordinate client meetings, consultations, and legal appointments. Manage attorney calendars while balancing litigation deadlines, business development, military obligations, and personal commitments. Arrange business travel, including flights, hotels, rental vehicles, and itineraries. Coordinate networking events, speaking engagements, and professional meetings. Schedule personal appointments as needed to maximize attorney availability. Client & Professional Communication Serve as a professional point of contact for clients, opposing counsel, government agencies, court personnel, and expert witnesses. Maintain professional written and verbal communications on behalf of the firm. Keep clients informed regarding scheduling, document requests, and case status updates. Assist with client intake and onboarding. Operations & Project Management Continuously identify opportunities to improve firm systems and workflows. Prioritize daily tasks based on client needs, litigation deadlines, and firm objectives. Anticipate potential issues before they become problems and develop practical solutions. Help improve office procedures, technology, and overall operational efficiency. Confidentiality & Professional Responsibility Handle confidential legal and client information with the highest level of discretion. Maintain compliance with attorney-client privilege, ethical obligations, and firm confidentiality policies. Exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive communications and documents.

Qualifications Preferred qualifications include:

Bachelor's degree or Paralegal Certificate preferred, but not required Previous experience in a law firm, legal department, military legal office, or government environment is preferred. Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail. Strong writing, proofreading, and grammar skills. Excellent verbal and written communication abilities. Ability to manage multiple deadlines with minimal supervision. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and cloud-based case management software. Ability to learn new technology quickly. Experience with MyCase, Microsoft 365, or similar legal software is a plus. Military, government, or security clearance experience is a plus but not required. Salary Range $15-$25 / Hour (contingent on experience) Why Join Matthew Thomas Law, PLLC? This is an opportunity to work directly alongside an attorney handling unique and meaningful cases involving military justice, national security, and federal employment. Every day presents new challenges and opportunities to make a meaningful difference in our clients' careers and lives. As our firm grows, there will be opportunities for increased responsibility, professional development, and advancement for the right individual. If you are looking for more than just another administrative position—and want to become an indispensable member of a mission-driven legal team—we encourage you to apply.

Pay:

$15.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

Retirement plan Work from home

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Jacksonville, NC 28540