Vanessa Cortes
Minneapolis, ,MN
Summary
Legal professional with over 5 years of experience in customer service and legal support, with a strong focus on client relations and delivering high-quality work. Experienced in drafting legal documents, case management, and administrative support. Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a strong commitment to accuracy, confidentiality, and ethical standards.
Overview
1
1
Language
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Legal Assistant
Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd.
Coon Rapids, MN
12.2021 - 06.2026
- Supported a team of three attorneys by tracking case files, monitoring case progress, identifying next steps, and maintaining organized records to facilitate case advancement.
- Drafted affidavits and legal correspondence for clients, courts, county offices, and third parties, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and adherence to legal standards.
- Prepared and executed legal documents while accurately recording and billing time in accordance with firm procedures.
- Coordinated with county offices to address client benefit applications and eligibility issues, advocating for timely resolutions on behalf of elder law and special needs clients.
- Managed attorney calendars, appointments, and scheduling priorities to maximize efficiency and ensure timely attention to case-related matters.
- Served as the primary point of contact between clients and attorneys, providing timely updates, responding to inquiries, and fostering positive client relationships.
Legal Assistant
Law Offices of Menk & Menk
Coon Rapids, MN
09.2019 - 08.2021
- Supported a team of two attorneys with day-to-day legal and administrative responsibilities.
- Drafted and organized legal correspondence, affidavits, and related documentation.
- Managed case files by organizing and maintaining electronic and physical records systematically.
- Coordinated appointment scheduling and maintained accurate records of updates.
- Facilitated communication between attorneys and clients by scheduling meetings, providing status updates, and relaying critical information promptly.
Direct Support Specialist
Lifeworks Services Inc.
Brooklyn Park, MN
07.2018 - 08.2019
- Provide everyday services and attend the needs of clients with disabilities.
- Follow and create curriculum for classes and activities while maintaining client-centered services.
- Provide a socially enriching environment for clients by teaching classes and going out into the community.
- Monitored client progress, collaborate with case managers to provide personalized support meet the needs and goals of clients
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Augsburg University
Minneapolis, MN08-2025
Skills
- Administrative support
- Document drafting
- File and records management
- Scheduling/Planning
- Client support
- Task prioritization
- Data entry
- Customer service
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Legal Assistant
Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd.
12.2021 - 06.2026
Legal Assistant
Law Offices of Menk & Menk
09.2019 - 08.2021
Direct Support Specialist
Lifeworks Services Inc.
07.2018 - 08.2019
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Augsburg University