Job Description
Job Description
Job Title: Commercial Real Estate Paralegal
Location: Richmond, Virginia
Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
About Us:
Whiteford, Taylor & Preston is a law firm focusing on corporate litigation, global and regulatory law for companies in a wide range of industries. With offices in Delaware, Kentucky, Maryland, Washington, and Virginia, our 170 lawyers help our clients grow their businesses in the mid-Atlantic and around the globe. At Whiteford we strive to provide the best in innovative and sophisticated legal services, and seek talented students, attorneys, and staff who share this goal. We also value an inclusive work environment where diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas are vital to a thriving workforce.
Job Summary
The Commercial Real Estate Paralegal will support attorneys in the Corporate and Securities section, whose practices are focused on commercial real estate transactions. This role is designed for an experienced paralegal who can independently manage transactions from start to finish, mentor junior staff, and serve as a key point of contact for clients and third parties. This role requires strong organizational skills, deadline and calendar management, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously in a fast-paced legal environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Independently manage multiple commercial real estate transactions, including purchases, sales, leases, financings, and refinancings
- Draft, review, and revise commercial real estate documents, including but not limited to purchase and sale agreements, loan documents, closing documents, amendments, etc.
- Prepare title objection notices
- Review title commitments, surveys, zoning reports and related due diligence materials
- File formation documents, amendments, and other required filings with state and governmental agencies.
- Assist with lender requirements, loan documentation, and closing requirements
- Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and vendors
- Coordinate and manage due diligence processes including review of title commitments, surveys, zoning reports and phase I environmental site assessments
- Manage post–closing obligations and follow up items
- Ensure compliance with internal procedures, client requirements, and applicable legal and ethical standards
- Assist attorneys with workflow coordination and process improvements
- Maintain organized physical and electronic transaction files
Skills and Abilities
- Strong knowledge of commercial real estate transactions and closing procedures
- Excellent drafting, proofreading, and document management skills with exceptional attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously while maintaining accuracy
- Strong understanding of title, survey and zoning issues
- Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent client-facing skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and legal document management systems; proficiency with e-recording platforms
- Ability to manage high-volume, complex matters with limited supervision
- Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a legal team
- High level of professional discretion and the ability to handle confidential and sensitive information
- Must demonstrate aptitude for learning other office related software
- Ability and willingness to work cooperatively and professionally with co-workers
- Work schedule flexibility, including availability to work overtime
Education and Experience Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree and/or associate’s degree in paralegal studies, legal studies, or a related field required.
- Paralegal certificate from an ABA-approved program preferred.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience as a commercial real estate paralegal in a law firm or corporate legal department.
- Knowledge of commercial real estate transactions and closing procedures