Freida Nichols

Legal Assistant to two associate attorneys. Draft legal pleadings, document. Manage attorneys' calendars including all scheduling of hearing, coordinating conferences, depositions, mediations and meetings. File documents into state and federal court efiling systems. Maintain up-to-date attorney case lists.

• Provided administrative support and research for civil litigation and civil proceedings
• Prepared interrogatories, requests for admissions, requests for production of documents and requests for examination or inspection
• Supported administration and research processes for civil litigation cases
• Investigated facts and law of cases, using pertinent sources to determine causes of action and to prepare cases
• Participated in professional development initiatives for consistent improvement and up-to-date knowledge of emerging trends and best practices.
  
• Compiled documentation, ensuring accuracy and detail for legal briefs, responses to opposing counsel, motions to court and trial exhibits
• Conferred with clients and other involved parties to gather and track case information
• Managed administrative tasks for attorney
• Completed document revisions, court document filings
• Developed positive working relationship with courts, clients, law enforcement members and attorneys
• Handled office scheduling and made notes for deadlines, motions and other important dates
• Acted as first point of contact for all clients
• Contacted clients to schedule appointments
• Interviewed and prepared intake sheets for clients
• Filed all court documents and legal pleadings with court clerk on behalf of attorneys

Began career with Clerk of Courts as Administrative Assistant. Throughout my tenure was assigned to and worked in various divisions including Jury Management, Official Records/Recording, Marriage, County Civil, Circuit Civil and County Criminal. Positions held were first or second in command of the division, reporting directly to the department head and/or the Clerk. Worked closely with members of the Judiciary (judges/judicial assistants) and was selected by the Chief Judge to manage and clerk all tobacco litigation trials.