Fernecia F. McKethern
Montgomery,AL
Summary
Proven track record of enhancing attorney-client relations and streamlining legal processes at Scott & Associates, showcasing exceptional paralegal experience and interpersonal skills. Expert in legal document accuracy, contributing to a significant reduction in court filing errors. Demonstrates a fast-learning ability and a commitment to excellence, ensuring meticulous case management and client satisfaction.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Legal Assistant/Paralegal
Scott & Associates
2023.02 - Current
- Maintains strict confidentiality, protecting sensitive client information as required by legal ethics and regulations.
- Improve communication between attorneys and clients by scheduling meetings, providing status updates, and relaying critical information promptly.
- Manages high-volume workload while maintaining strict attention to detail on every task such as drafting pleadings or summarizing depositions accurately.
- Responds to client inquiries, providing accurate legal advice and offering assistance.
- Reduces errors in court filings by meticulously proofreading documents for accuracy before submission.
- Gathers key information during initial client intake interviews that contributs significantly to the formulation of effective legal arguments.
- Assists with trial preparation, including creation of exhibits, compilation of witness lists, and organization of evidence materials.
- Drafts accurate and persuasive legal correspondence, contributing to successful negotiations and settlements.
- Drafts legal documents, including pleadings and motions, to support attorneys in various cases.
- Manages correspondence with clients, courts, and opposing counsel,maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
- Assists in trial preparation by organizing exhibits, preparing witness lists, and coordinating trial logistics.
- Produces legal documents such as briefs, pleadings and appeals.
- Assists attorneys with reviewing and organizing witness reports.
- Edit and proofread legal documents to verify accuracy.
- Communicate with clients, opposing counsel and court personnel to keep all parties informed on case updates.
- Assist in drafting legal documents, ensuring compliance with court requirements and deadlines.
- Communicat pertinent information to clients via phone, email, and mail.
Legal Assistant Records Coordinator Supervisor
Montgomery County District Attorney's Office
2019.01 - 2023.02
- Maintained District Attorney files according to departmental policies and prosecutes in accordance with State and Federal guidelines.
- Ensured that the Attorney's daily report information was keyed-in each day; checked database for correct file numbers; and other pertinent information.
- Prepared daily spreadsheet for distribution to District Attorney, MPD and Deputy Attorney's; ensured reports were distributed on a timely basis.
- Wrote letters to request copies of final dispositions in cases where Defendants have been arrested by other agencies.
- Controlled access to files and/or records of a sensitive or confidential nature.
- Oversaw preparation of warrants on a daily basis by conducting background checks and researching criminal and driving records; interacted with outside agencies and authorities in obtaining requested background information.
- Obtained certified criminal records from the Alabama Criminal Information Justice System, City and Circuit Clerk's Offices, Department of Public Safety and other Law Enforcement Agencies.
- Reviewed certifications and information related to witnesses for next day court hearings and trials.
- Received and handled complaints and requests from the public and internal staff; researched inquiries and follow-ups to ensure problems were resolved and adequately addressed.
- Exchanged information via phone or fax to answer questions, handle complaints, or provide information regarding criminal records and/or District Attorney files.
- Head supervisor in supervision and oversight of records office; trained of other clerical employees; served as a resource person for questions related to records and criminal case files.
Court Specialist I
Montgomery Circuit Clerk
2014.05 - 2019.01
- Performed clerical duties in the court of law for Judges and Clerks.
- Prepared and maintained dockets for Judges.
- Processed workflows related to specific areas of court processes.
- Issued paperwork to Sheriff for the issuance of small claims, garnishments and evictions.
- Sorted, stamped and filed wide variety of legal and judicial materials.
- Answered inbound and outbound calls.
- Documented paperwork in Alacourt and SJIS (computer program).
- Maintained money and answered questions from the public.
Probation Case Manager Officer
Judicial Correction Services
2008.07 - 2014.12
- Conducted thorough assessments of clients'' situations, identifying issues, goals, and necessary interventions.
- Made recommendations in court hearings on Defendant's behalf.
- Maintained accurate documentation on all cases, ensuring compliance with regulations and confidentiality requirements.
- Testified in sentence hearings when defendant's violated court orders.
- Educated clients on available programs, benefits, and services, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care needs.
- Maintained money on court and probation fees and fines.
Administrative Assistant
Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce
2004.04 - 2008.07
- Answered multi-line phone system, routing calls, delivering messages to staff and greeting visitors.
- Scheduled and coordinated meetings.
- Opened, sorted and distributed incoming mail.
- Maintained office supply inventories.
- Performed clerical duties such as copying, faxing and mailing of documents.
Education
Associate of Arts - Criminal Justice
Troy State University
Montgomery, AL01.2005
High School Diploma -
Montgomery County Jigh School
Ramer, AL05.1999
Skills
Great interpersonal and Team Building
Effective verbal and listening
Fast Learner
Reliable and punctual
Excellent customer service
Clerical Experience
Cash handling
Office Management
Paralegal Experience
Law Experience
Timeline
Legal Assistant/Paralegal
Scott & Associates
2023.02 - Current
Legal Assistant Records Coordinator Supervisor
Montgomery County District Attorney's Office
2019.01 - 2023.02
Court Specialist I
Montgomery Circuit Clerk
2014.05 - 2019.01
Probation Case Manager Officer
Judicial Correction Services
2008.07 - 2014.12
Administrative Assistant
Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce
2004.04 - 2008.07
Associate of Arts - Criminal Justice
Troy State University
High School Diploma -
Montgomery County Jigh School
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