Paralegal Fort Walton Beach

Family Law Paralegal, Fort Walton Beach Office

Location: Fort Walton Beach, FL
Employment Type: Full-time
Department: Family Law

About The Virga Law Firm, P.A.

The Virga Law Firm, P.A. is a premier family law firm committed to integrity, excellence, and achieving outstanding results for our clients. We foster a collaborative environment built on teamwork, community stewardship, and the relentless pursuit of success. Our paralegals are integral to supporting our attorneys and clients throughout complex legal proceedings.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Family Law Paralegal to join our Fort Walton Beach office. This position requires expertise in managing sophisticated family law matters, including divorce proceedings, child custody cases, alimony determinations, and related family law issues. The successful candidate will demonstrate proficiency in default proceedings and excel in independent case management within a fast-paced legal environment.

Key Responsibilities

Case Management & Administration:

• Oversee the complete family law process from initial intake through trial preparation
• Maintain comprehensive case files with accurate tracking of all materials and critical deadlines
• Develop and implement case strategies, particularly for matters involving non-participating parties
• Manage multiple cases simultaneously while ensuring attention to detail and quality

Document Preparation & Legal Support:

• Assist attorneys in drafting pleadings, legal correspondence, and case-related documents
• Prepare and file family law pleadings, motions, and court orders with precision
• Draft financial affidavits, child support calculations, and financial discovery documents
• Create and organize supporting documentation for alimony, child support, and attorney fee claims

Discovery & Financial Analysis:

• Collect, review, and organize discovery materials systematically
• Prepare comprehensive financial discovery and child support guideline worksheets
• Calculate income for support purposes using established guidelines
• Ensure accurate preparation and presentation of financial documentation

Default Proceedings Expertise:

• Manage all aspects of default proceedings, including service of process verification
• Document diligent attempts to locate non-participating parties
• Secure court-ordered relief in cases without opposing party financial disclosure
• Ensure strict adherence to procedural requirements for default judgments

Client Relations & Court Coordination:

• Communicate professionally with clients to obtain and clarify necessary documentation
• Coordinate court appearances, mediations, depositions, and other legal proceedings
• Maintain meticulous case calendars and manage e-filing requirements

Required Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum 1 year of family law experience required
• Specialization: Demonstrated expertise in default proceedings and independent case management
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with legal practice management software (Clio preferred) and document management systems
• Legal Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of Florida Family Law, including state-specific procedures and requirements
• Financial Competency: Strong ability in financial discovery preparation and support calculations
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Organization: Exceptional organizational and documentation capabilities
• Work Ethic: Strong ability to manage multiple cases effectively in a demanding environment

Compensation & Benefits Package

Salary: DOE, Open, (commensurate with experience)

Time Off Benefits:

• 160 hours paid time off annually
• 11 paid holidays plus 1 flexible holiday
• Half-day Fridays (performance-based)
• Paid sick time and parental leave

Insurance Coverage:

• Dental and vision insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Employee assistance program

Additional Benefits:

• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible schedule options
• Travel reimbursement
• Team recognition programs
• Collaborative, positive work culture with staff celebrations

Work Environment

This full-time position operates within a dynamic, fast-paced legal environment that values teamwork and professional excellence. Standard schedule includes 8-hour shifts, Monday through Friday, with opportunities for schedule flexibility based on performance and firm needs.

Application Requirements

To apply, please submit a complete application package including:

1. Current resume
2. Professional cover letter
3. Two letters of recommendation
4. Personal essay addressing your "Why" in family law - explain your passion for family law practice and why The Virga Law Firm should select you to serve our clients
5. Responses to the following questions:
   • How many family law cases have you managed simultaneously?
   • What is your available start date?
   • What are your salary expectations?
   • Do you consider yourself a positive individual?

Application Submission:
Email complete application package to: careers@thevirgalawfirm.com

For More Information:
Visit: www.thevirgalawfirm.com/careers
Call: 850-565-3426

The Virga Law Firm, P.A. is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.