Litigation Paralegal

Our Chicago legal team is in search of a detail-oriented, resourceful, flexible, and efficient Litigation Paralegal to take an active role in EQR’s day-to-day administration of litigation-related and other legal issues associated with the operation of multi-family residential and mixed-use properties owned by the company. As a Litigation Paralegal, your primary responsibilities will include supporting in-house attorneys and outside counsel in investigations, discovery and resolution of disputes — including fair housing and employment disputes, construction and development litigation, putative class action litigation, general liability matters, and contract or other business disputes. Your assigned work may also involve the preparation of litigation responses and position statements, file and database maintenance and management, and other tasks. Every day will be unique, allowing you to regularly learn new things and challenging you to think on your feet.

• An Experienced Litigation Paralegal. To help you quickly transition into this position, you’ve got at least 3 years of previous paralegal experience under your belt, preferably in an in-house legal department.
• Detail-Oriented, Accountable, and Enjoy Multitasking. You have a keen eye for detail and pride yourself on delivering quality work, ensuring that all documentation is prepared in an accurate and professional manner. You are organized and able to juggle multiple tasks and meet deadlines consistently—even if they’re tight.  Above all, you are flexible and able to adjust to the changing priorities of the business and/or the in-house lawyers you support.
• An Excellent Communicator. Your writing and speaking skills are clear and effective, helping you communicate with all levels of the organization, from management to co-workers to outside legal counsel. You know how to organize your communication in order to effectively get your message across and be understood.
• Trustworthy and Discerning.  The ability to work with confidential information, while using discretion, is crucial to this position.
• Reliable. Because you consistently follow through on meeting your deliverables, your co-workers and business partners are confident that they can count on you.
• Technologically Savvy. Tools like email and internet access start as basic necessities in your daily operation and you are comfortable using computers. You are proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Word, and Excel) and also enjoy learning new tools, technology, and/or software to help you most effectively get the job done.

• Conduct factual investigations of claims and matters in suits and take an active role in responding to discovery and other litigation-related tasks.
• Actively participate in gathering information and drafting correspondence, position statements, and other written responses to attorneys and government agencies.
• Manage electronic discovery performed by the Company or outside counsel, including taking an active role in managing discovery databases and developing other methods for tracking data collected in connection with discovery and other litigation-related inquiries.
• Assist with the management of the Company’s General Liability litigation docket, utilizing the Company’s billing and matter management system.
• Support efforts to defend small claims lawsuits, which includes assisting with the claims investigation process and trial preparation.
• Perform online research using Westlaw and other electronic resources.
• Maintain regular and timely communications with internal and external clients.
• Consistently maintain a professional and courteous attitude when dealing with coworkers and the general public.
• Perform other duties and participate in special projects as necessary.

• Bachelor's degree and paralegal certificate preferred
• 3+ years of prior Paralegal experience required, with in-house experience preferred; prior experience in a real estate environment is a plus
• Must be comfortable working with technology and proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Applications (Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Docs)
• Must have strong organizational skills with an ability to work independently, while meeting tight deadlines without sacrificing quality of work product.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with an ability to speak and write in a clear and articulate manner
• Detail oriented and well-organized, with an ability to multi-task and effectively prioritize various responsibilities
• Team player that demonstrates flexibility and the ability to integrate and work well with others
• Motivated to succeed with capacity to assume increasing responsibility
• Demonstrated ability to work with confidential information and use discretion accordingly

We recognize that everyone has different needs outside of work. That’s why, in addition to a competitive benefits package (medical, dental, vision and paid time off), we offer many unique benefits options to employees, like pet insurance and paid time off for community service projects. To learn more, view our Total Wellbeing page here.