Join Zirtual as a Family & Criminal Law Legal Assistant in a rewarding remote volunteer role based in Michigan Center, MI. This position plays a crucial role in supporting attorneys handling sensitive family law matters like divorce, custody, and adoptions, as well as criminal defense cases including arraignments, trials, and appeals. Your contributions will directly impact clients' lives by ensuring efficient case preparation and compassionate service delivery, aligning with Zirtual's mission to provide accessible virtual assistance that empowers legal professionals and underserved communities. In your day-to-day responsibilities, you will conduct thorough legal research using online databases and statutes specific to Michigan family and criminal law, drafting motions, pleadings, and correspondence with precision and timeliness. Daily tasks include organizing and indexing case files, scheduling court appearances, depositions, and client meetings via virtual platforms, and maintaining confidential client records in compliance with ethical standards. Weekly, you will prepare discovery documents, summarize depositions, and collaborate with attorneys to track case deadlines and deliverables, ensuring no milestones are missed. Monthly, generate progress reports on active caseloads, assist in client intake by gathering initial documentation, and coordinate with external experts like investigators or mediators. You will also handle administrative duties such as billing coordination for pro bono cases, updating case management software, and participating in team debriefs to refine processes. Expect to manage 10-15 active files weekly, collaborating closely with lead attorneys, paralegals, and occasionally court personnel to deliver high-quality support. To succeed, candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in legal studies, paralegal studies, or a related field, supplemented by completion of an ABA-approved paralegal certification program. At least 2-3 years of hands-on experience in family or criminal law support is required, with proven familiarity in Michigan court procedures and statutes. Proficiency in legal software such as Clio, MyCase, or Westlaw, along with Microsoft Office Suite for document automation, is essential. Knowledge of e-filing systems like MiFILE and domain expertise in areas like domestic violence restraining orders or felony defenses is highly valued. Active membership in good standing with the Michigan Paralegal Association or similar is preferred, ensuring adherence to professional ethics and confidentiality protocols. Beyond technical prowess, you will demonstrate exceptional organizational skills to juggle multiple deadlines, superior written and verbal communication for client interactions and court filings, and empathy vital for handling emotionally charged family and criminal matters. Attention to detail prevents errors in legal documents, while problem-solving abilities aid in navigating complex case scenarios. Tech-savviness with remote tools like Zoom, Slack, and DocuSign enhances collaboration, and a proactive mindset ensures smooth virtual workflows in this dynamic legal environment. Zirtual is a forward-thinking virtual assistant company revolutionizing professional support services with a commitment to flexibility and impact. Our mission centers on empowering professionals through remote talent, fostering a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and work-life balance. The legal team operates in a collaborative, distributed structure with flat hierarchies, emphasizing mentorship and continuous feedback in a supportive, remote-first environment that values diversity and community service. This volunteer position offers not just professional fulfillment but a pathway to skill-building, with compensation not specified as per the posting details. Participants gain access to comprehensive training in legal tech tools, health and wellness resources through partner programs, generous PTO equivalents for volunteers, and flexible remote hours tailored to Michigan time zones. Additional perks include networking events, pro bono recognition awards, and potential pathways to paid roles, plus insurance stipends for long-term contributors and retirement planning guidance. Embrace growth through hands-on experience that builds your resume, with opportunities for advancement to senior paralegal or attorney liaison roles within Zirtual's expanding network. Professional development includes webinars, certifications reimbursement, and mentorship programs. To apply, submit your resume and cover letter highlighting relevant experience to Zirtual's careers portal, with interviews conducted virtually.