Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Timeline
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KAREN RINEHIMER

KAREN RINEHIMER

North Andover,US

Summary

Dedicated Paralegal offering an extensive legal skill set, proficiency in managing large caseloads, proven record of accurately managing projects under tight deadlines, and demonstrated capacity to provide comprehensive support. Familiar with investigation techniques for civil, criminal and transactional cases, and employs excellent research skills in a diverse range of legal and civil research databases, including AI research through Westlaw Precision and Co-Counsel.

Overview

36
36
years of professional experience

Work History

Paralegal Specialist

Letter Perfect Legal
1996.08 - Current

Independent Contractor continuing to work primarily for Attorney Stephen P. Colella in the same capacity, as well as working for numerous other attorneys and private investigators to include the following additional services:

  • Developed comprehensive database of legal resources, significantly reducing research time through use of AI using Westlaw Precision and Co-Counsel.
  • Drafted pleadings, motions, and briefs in compliance with court rules, leading to successful outcomes in more than 100 cases.
  • Streamlined workflow and billing by implementing new document management system (Smokeball) reducing time spent on file retrieval and increasing company revenue (Lawpay).
  • Managed document review for high-profile cases, ensuring thoroughness and accuracy in evidence compilation.
  • Liaised with clients to gather crucial case information, fostering strong relationships and ensuring comprehensive case preparation.
  • Assisted in securing favorable settlements for clients by drafting persuasive settlement proposals and negotiating terms.
  • Facilitated smooth communication between all parties involved in litigation, preventing misunderstandings and delays.
  • Ensured accurate record-keeping by maintaining up-to-date case files, both physical and electronic formats.
  • Managed exhibits, evidence and data related to all civil and criminal legal proceedings.
  • Supported attorneys during trials by managing exhibits and ensuring necessary documents were at hand, contributing to seamless courtroom operations.
  • Completed electronic court filings at state level.Managed exhibits, evidence and data related to civil and criminal legal proceedings.
  • Enhanced firm's reputation by contributing to high success rate in case resolutions.

Paralegal

Law Offices of Stephen P. Colella
1988.11 - 1996.08

Worked for Attorney Stephen P. Colella in all capacities listed in Letter Perfect Legal above, prior to becoming an independent contractor in 1996, in addition to the following:

  • Conducted detailed client intakes and entered information into company database.
  • Expedited document review process by conducting initial reviews of key documents for relevance and privilege status.
  • Ensured compliance with court rules and procedures by accurately preparing and submitting legal filings within established timeframes.
  • Conferred with clients and other involved parties to gather and track case information.
  • Enhanced case efficiency by organizing and maintaining legal documents, files, and correspondence.
  • Assisted in preparation of settlement proposals and agreements to help attorneys negotiate settlement in best interest of client.
  • Boosted office productivity by maintaining an accurate calendar of appointments, deadlines, and court appearances.
  • Maintained and updated organized client contact information to keep in touch with clients and provide updates on cases.
  • Streamlined communication between clients and legal staff by managing client inquiries promptly and professionally.
  • Assisted in drafting legal documents, ensuring compliance with court requirements and deadlines.
  • Facilitated smoother trial preparations, organizing exhibits and coordinating witnesses.
  • Optimized legal proceedings with precise preparation of trial notebooks and evidence.
  • Streamlined office communication and improved case management with meticulous record-keeping and scheduling.
  • Bolstered firm's reputation by consistently maintaining high standards of confidentiality and professionalism.
  • Increased efficiency in legal document production with advanced proficiency in legal software applications.
  • Improved client trust and satisfaction, providing comprehensive support and updates throughout case progression.
  • Increased client satisfaction with thorough research and prompt response to inquiries.
  • Revised and finalized letters, briefs, and memos.
  • Contacted clients to schedule appointments and discuss progress of cases.
  • Interviewed clients to obtain information relevant to cases.
  • Reviewed, edited and proofread litigation for proper grammar, spelling and punctuation.
  • Contacted witnesses to testify under oath at court hearings.
  • Produced legal documents such as briefs, pleadings and appeals.
  • Developed polished motions and briefs to support litigation processes and court proceedings.
  • Wrote and filed pleadings with both District and Superior Court on schedule to maximize case success.
  • Communicated with clients, opposing counsel and court personnel to keep all parties informed on case updates.
  • Assisted attorney with trial preparation through thorough research and analysis of relevant laws and regulations.
  • Assisted counsel in preparing answers, providing documentation, and information for discovery request.
  • Contributed to firm-client relationship building through professional interactions with clients during meetings or phone calls, conveying empathy while maintaining confidentiality.
  • Contributed to successful case outcomes through diligent fact investigation and witness interviews.
  • Facilitated timely and accurate billing by recording billable hours, expenses, and other relevant information in the firm's billing system.
  • Edited and proofread legal documents to verify accuracy.
  • Reduced attorney workload by drafting routine legal documents such as pleadings, motions, and affidavits.
  • Managed scheduling of court calendars and deadlines to maintain smooth flow of firm operations.

Education

Skills

  • Overall Case Management and Document Management
  • Drafting Court Documents for Criminal and Civil Litigation
  • Drafting Discovery
  • Westlaw Precision and Co-Counsel Research
  • HIPPA & FOIA Compliance

Accomplishments

  • Developed checklists, form letters, and summary statements for the request and review of documents in all firm matters
  • Request, review and summarize all medical documents relating to personal injury and medical malpractice actions
  • Assisted multiple attorneys with trial preparation, developed trial exhibits to motions and reviewed/organized documents for trial discovery
  • Sole Paralegal to four attorneys in all phases of a 3-week extensive Rape trial

Affiliations

  • Notary Public, Commonwealth of MA;
  • Massachusetts Association of Paralegals;
  • Massachusetts Continuation Legal Education Program;
  • Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce;

Timeline

Paralegal Specialist

Letter Perfect Legal
1996.08 - Current

Paralegal

Law Offices of Stephen P. Colella
1988.11 - 1996.08
KAREN RINEHIMER