An established Ottawa law firm is seeking a highly experienced Senior Legal Assistant to support a senior commercial/construction litigation lawyer in a full-scope practice management role. This opportunity is ideal for a seasoned litigation support professional who thrives in a traditional 1:1 lawyer support environment, enjoys taking ownership of files from beginning to end, and values stability, autonomy, and long-term career fit.
About Our Client
Our client is a respected mid-sized Ottawa law firm known for its collaborative, relationship-driven culture and strong employee retention. The firm offers a less corporate environment than large national firms, with a family-style atmosphere and a leadership team that values loyalty, professionalism, and long-term commitment.
The firm is currently seeking a Senior Legal Assistant to support a senior litigation lawyer with a well-established commercial and construction litigation practice. The successful candidate will join a team that values accountability, adaptability, and high-quality client service. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and social events throughout the year.
About The Opportunity
This is an excellent opportunity for a senior litigation support professional looking for a long-term role with significant autonomy and responsibility. The successful candidate will work closely with one senior lawyer in a highly involved support capacity, managing all aspects of litigation file administration and practice coordination.
The position is best suited to someone who is proactive, highly organized, and comfortable working within a traditional legal practice environment. The lawyer supported in this role has a very established and hands-on working style, requiring a candidate who can anticipate needs, manage competing priorities independently, and confidently oversee the administrative lifecycle of litigation matters.
About The Position
The Senior Legal Assistant will provide dedicated support to a senior commercial/construction litigation lawyer and will be responsible for the full management of legal files from opening through to closing. Responsibilities include maintaining electronic and physical files, coordinating litigation deadlines, preparing legal documents, communicating with clients and opposing counsel, and overseeing billing and practice administration.
This role requires someone who understands litigation workflow intuitively and can independently manage priorities, timelines, and lawyer communications with minimal supervision. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the practice while maintaining a high standard of professionalism and client service.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing litigation files from opening to closing in both electronic and hard-copy formats
- Reviewing and organizing email correspondence, flagging deadlines and follow-ups
- Maintaining calendars, bring-forward systems, litigation timelines, and court deadlines
- Coordinating meetings, mediations, discoveries, and client communications
- Drafting and preparing correspondence, legal documents, and court materials
- Preparing and filing motions, affidavits, trial records, claims, liens, and related materials
- Managing docketing, invoicing, and account follow-up
- Providing ongoing administrative and practice management support to the lawyer
The Requirements
- Minimum 5 years of litigation support experience, preferably within commercial and/or construction litigation
- Demonstrated experience independently managing files from beginning to end
- Strong understanding of Ontario litigation procedures, including Rules of Civil Procedure and Construction Act matters
- Experience supporting lawyers in a direct 1:1 support model
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities autonomously
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience with Superior Court, Small Claims Court, Federal Court, Tribunals, Bankruptcy and Commercial Court processes
- Strong technical proficiency with Microsoft 365, Outlook, Adobe Pro, ACL/Xchangedocs, Ghost Practice, Justice Services Online, and Case Center
- Ability to work effectively within a traditional legal practice environment
- Mature, adaptable, highly professional, and collaborative approach
Compensation
- Salary range: $90,000-110,000
- RRSP matching program
- Extended health benefits including dental
- On-site free parking
- Generous vacation
- Supportive and collaborative firm culture with strong employee retention and regular social events
At Aplin — together with our brands CompuStaff, Impact Recruitment, and Vantix Systems — we connect great people with great organizations across North America. We believe diverse teams build stronger companies, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We use AI tools to assist in a fair and efficient matching process, helping our recruiters connect the right people with the right opportunities. To be considered, applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, including holding any required permits. Our recruitment services are always free for job seekers.
