B. Renee Desjardin
Yucca Valley,CA
Summary
A reliable and dedicated professional with a proven track record of success in taking on increasing levels of responsibility. I possess strong supervisory skills and can effectively motivate staff while promoting a collaborative team environment. Over the last decade I have managed and operated a law office full-time. Prior to that, I worked as a legal secretary where I have worked my way up at the office while going to school in the evening.
Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Legal Assistant /Business Office Manager
The Law Office of Richard M. Ghan
Yucca Valley, CA
01.2015 - Current
- Managed case files and documentation, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
- Gathered key information during initial client intake interviews that contributed significantly to the formulation of effective legal arguments.
- Drafted legal documents, including pleadings and contracts, maintaining accuracy and consistency.
- Coordinated communication between clients, attorneys, and court personnel to streamline processes.
- Trained junior staff on legal procedures and software applications for improved workflow.
- Optimized scheduling of appointments and court dates to maximize time management for legal team.
- Assisted with trial preparation, including creation of exhibits, compilation of witness lists, and organization of evidence materials.
- Drafted accurate and persuasive legal correspondence, contributing to successful negotiations and settlements.
- Streamlined administrative processes for better efficiency in handling caseloads, reducing paperwork backlog, and ensuring timely completion of tasks.
- Conducted comprehensive legal research using various resources such as online databases, law libraries, or government agencies to support case strategies effectively.
- Assisted in negotiation and drafting of settlement agreements, facilitating amicable resolutions in numerous cases.
- Optimized document management processes, leading to quicker access to critical information during case preparation.
- Ensured compliance with legal procedures and court requirements through diligent monitoring and application of rules. Researched statutes, decisions, legal articles, and codes.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of legal developments and changes in law, ensuring firm's practices remained compliant and effective.
- Enhanced legal document accuracy by meticulously reviewing and editing over 100 contracts and agreements.
- Conducted comprehensive legal research in preparation and in anticipation of trial by organizing exhibits, preparing witness lists, and coordinating trial logistics that led to an increase in successful case outcomes. Assisted attorneys with reviewing and organizing witness reports. Contacted witnesses to testify under oath at court hearings.
- Contributed to positive work environment by offering comprehensive support to attorneys and staff, including document management and meeting coordination.
- Increased team efficiency by coordinating schedules, managing court dates, and ensuring timely filing of legal documents.
- Improved efficiency in document production and management through introduction of advanced software tools.
- Managed correspondence with clients, courts, and opposing counsel, maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
- Contributed to client retention by delivering exceptional support services and maintaining high levels of satisfaction.
- Streamlined communication between legal team members, fostering collaborative work environment.
- Facilitated client meetings and consultations, ensuring all necessary documentation was prepared and available for attorney review.
- Improved client satisfaction with prompt and effective communication regarding case updates and inquiries.
- Drafted legal documents, including pleadings and motions, to support attorneys in various cases.
- Streamlined office operations and reduced retrieval time by implementing efficient filing system for both physical and digital records.
- Produced legal documents such as briefs, pleadings and appeals. Reviewed, edited and proofread litigation for proper grammar, spelling and punctuation. Revised and finalized letters, briefs, and memos.
- Attended court hearings and depositions to take notes and document proceedings.
- Interviewed clients to obtain information relevant to cases.
- Collaborated with attorneys to develop strategies for each case.
- Prepared various exhibits for attorneys for public meetings, zoning commission meetings, and legal resolutions.
- Researched and analyzed legal issues and cases to provide accurate advice to clients.
- Developed polished motions and briefs to support litigation processes and court proceedings.
- Generated leads to meet and exceed revenue goals by identifying new clients.
- Analyzed deeds of trust to verify grantor, grantee, trustee and loan amounts for executive leadership.
- Managed supervisor itinerary and appointments and streamlined scheduling procedures.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors, securing cost-effective services and supplies for office.
- Resolved issues through active listening and open-ended questioning, escalating major problems to manager.
- Hired, managed, developed and trained staff, established and monitored goals, conducted performance reviews and administered salaries for staff.
- Oversaw appointment scheduling and itinerary coordination for both clients and personnel.
- Communicated pertinent information to clients via phone, email, and mail. Improved customer satisfaction scores through application of superior conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
- Standardized document handling procedures to enhance accessibility and retrieval times for critical information.
- Improved client satisfaction by developing customer feedback system and addressing concerns promptly and effectively.
- Delivered exceptional service to clients by assisting them with routine needs like obtaining copies of pertinent records or directing them to appropriate resources when needed.
- Provided backup to front desk to step in to assist with various tasks whenever employee was absent or at lunch.
- Completed bi-weekly payroll for employees.
- Managed accounts and client records of clients, observing confidentiality, and extreme discretion.
- Reduced errors in court filings by meticulously proofreading documents for accuracy before submission.
- Implemented document management systems to enhance efficiency in case handling.
- Enhanced office productivity by implementing efficient document management systems for easy retrieval and storage.
- Implemented new software for financial management, significantly reducing errors in budget reports and expense tracking.
- Resolved financial discrepancies and customer billing issues with timely attention.
- Updated reports, managed accounts, and generated reports for company database.
- Handled billing tasks efficiently and accurately, ensuring smooth financial operations for the legal team.
Head Bartender
Willy Boys Saloon
Morongo Valley, CA
06.2015 - 08.2018
- Knowledge of the POS register system, etc.
- Directed daily operations, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.
- Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts to optimize service delivery.
- Implemented employee training programs, increasing overall staff competency and reducing skills gaps.
- Safeguarded sensitive company information by establishing comprehensive data security protocols that complied with industry best practices.
- Streamlined office communications by creating clear channels for information sharing and collaboration among team members.
- Increased team productivity with introduction of flexible work schedules, accommodating personal needs while ensuring coverage.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of bar area, adhering to health and safety regulations.
- Performed opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
- Managed inventory levels, ensuring timely replenishment of bar supplies and minimizing waste.
- Trained new staff on bartending techniques, cocktail recipes, and customer service standards.
Paralegal Consultant
The Law Office of Natalie Marcell
San Francisco, Ca
02.2018 - 05.2018
- Drafted and reviewed legal documents, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
- Assisted counsel in preparing answers, providing documentation, and information for discovery request.
- Edited and proofread legal documents to verify accuracy.
- Liaised with other paralegals and legal staff to complete common tasks on schedule.
- Prepared legal briefs, motions, and pleadings.
- Reduced attorney workload by drafting routine legal documents such as pleadings, motions, and affidavits.
Bartender
PJ's Sports Bar & Lounge
Yucca Valley, CA
04.2015 - 07.2015
- Knowledge of the POS register system
- Trained and mentored junior bartenders on mixology techniques and customer engagement strategies.
- Analyzed customer feedback to refine service delivery and improve repeat business rates.
- Monitored cash handling procedures to ensure accuracy in transactions while minimizing instances of theft or loss.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally, preserving the establishment''s reputation for excellent service.
Bartender Supervisor
Show Girls, Gentle Men's Club
Cathedral City, CA
08.2013 - 04.2015
- Knowledgeable in the POS register system.
- Supported special events through attentive service, adapting quickly to varying needs of guests or clients.
- Proactively addressed potential conflicts or disturbances among patrons, maintaining a safe atmosphere for all guests.
- Resolved customer complaints with empathy and professionalism, turning potentially negative experiences into positive ones.
- Adapted to fast-paced environment, effectively managing multiple drink orders simultaneously without compromising quality.
- Fostered culture of teamwork, collaborating with colleagues to ensure smooth operation during high-traffic periods.
- Improved team morale and efficiency, leading by example and offering support during peak hours.
- Trained new staff on bar procedures, cocktail recipes, and customer service standards, ensuring consistent service quality.
- Verified drinking age requirements of customers by carefully reviewing photo identification.
- Upheld strict regulations for safe alcohol service and food safety.
- Assisted with inventorying beverage stock and bar supplies.
- Managed bar inventory, restocked supplies and placed orders for spirits, beer, wines, and mixers.
- Practiced safe work habits, wearing protective equipment and consistently following MSDS and OSHA standards.
- Trained new staff on bartending techniques, cocktail recipes, and customer service standards.
- Top sales.
- Developed signature drinks to attract clientele and maintain competitive edge in local market.
- Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
- Contributed to a positive work environment through effective teamwork and communication with colleagues.
Legal Secretary
The Law Office of Richard M. Ghan
Yucca Valley, CA
01.2013 - 01.2015
- Ability to multitask in a busy environment.
- Conducted legal research using Westlaw and LexisNexis to support case preparation effectively.
- Managed case files and documentation, enhancing organization and retrieval processes for attorneys.
- Coordinated communication between clients and attorneys, facilitating timely updates on case status.
- Assisted in trial preparation by compiling exhibits and preparing witness lists for hearings.
- Developed and maintained filing systems to streamline access to critical legal information and records.
- Maintained strict confidentiality, protecting sensitive client information as required by legal ethics and regulations.
- Handled office scheduling and made notes for deadlines, motions, and other important dates.
- Improved communication between attorneys and clients by scheduling meetings, providing status updates, and relaying critical information promptly.
- Increased client satisfaction by efficiently managing case files and promptly addressing inquiries.
- Implemented document management solutions that reduced turnaround time for client deliverables significantly.
- Managed accounts and client records of clients, observing confidentiality, and extreme discretion.
- Delivered exceptional service to clients by assisting them with routine needs like obtaining copies of pertinent records or directing them to appropriate resources when needed.
- Reduced errors in court filings by meticulously proofreading documents for accuracy before submission.
- Handled billing tasks efficiently and accurately, ensuring smooth financial operations for the legal team.
- Enhanced office productivity by implementing efficient document management systems for easy retrieval and storage.
Retail Sales Associate
Buckle
Palm Desert, CA
06.2013 - 05.2014
- Facilitated regular team meetings to discuss performance metrics and share feedback for improvement.
- Handled cash transactions efficiently while adhering to company cash handling policies, ensuring accuracy in all financial exchanges.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
- Maintained calm demeanor and professionally managed issues in busy, high-stress situations.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Helped customers locate products and checked store system for merchandise at other sites.
- Answered customer questions about sizing, accessories, and merchandise care.
- Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability and store appearance.
- Accurately processed POS transactions, returning coin, currency, payment cards, and receipts to customers.
Retail Sales Associate
Buckle
Palm Desert, CA
06.2013 - 05.2014
- Top sales associate.
- Managed inventory processes to ensure optimal stock levels and product availability.
- Implemented visual merchandising standards to enhance product presentation and appeal.
- Facilitated regular team meetings to discuss performance metrics and share feedback for improvement.
- Handled cash transactions efficiently while adhering to company cash handling policies, ensuring accuracy in all financial exchanges.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
- Maintained calm demeanor and professionally managed issues in busy, high-stress situations.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Helped customers locate products and checked store system for merchandise at other sites.
- Answered customer questions about sizing, accessories, and merchandise care.
- Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability and store appearance.
- Accurately processed POS transactions, returning coin, currency, payment cards, and receipts to customers.
Education
No Degree - J.D.
California Desert Trial Academy, College of Law
Indio, CABachelor of Arts - Political Scienc
California State University, San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CA12.2016
Associate of Arts - Political Science
Copper Mountain Community College
Joshua Tree, CA05.2014
Skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Publisher, Outlook, and PowerPoint for Windows
- Deadline monitoring
- Experienced with multi-line telephone systems, fax machines, scanners, and copiers
- Legal research and document drafting / preparation
- Data confidentiality
- Ethics compliance
- Family, Real Estate, Civil and Criminal law familiarity
- Office management
- Contract review
- Legal and court processes
- Legal correspondence
- Workload management
Timeline
Paralegal Consultant
The Law Office of Natalie Marcell
02.2018 - 05.2018
Head Bartender
Willy Boys Saloon
06.2015 - 08.2018
Bartender
PJ's Sports Bar & Lounge
04.2015 - 07.2015
Legal Assistant /Business Office Manager
The Law Office of Richard M. Ghan
01.2015 - Current
Bartender Supervisor
Show Girls, Gentle Men's Club
08.2013 - 04.2015
Retail Sales Associate
Buckle
06.2013 - 05.2014
Retail Sales Associate
Buckle
06.2013 - 05.2014
Legal Secretary
The Law Office of Richard M. Ghan
01.2013 - 01.2015
No Degree - J.D.
California Desert Trial Academy, College of Law
Bachelor of Arts - Political Scienc
California State University, San Bernardino
Associate of Arts - Political Science
Copper Mountain Community College
Community Service
Volunteer at Animal Shelters and attending other Non-Profit Events throughout the Morongo Basin and Hi-Desert; Animal rescue as needed when there are stranded animals (wild/domestic) that require a ride to a shelter and/or vets; Volunteer to raise money for shelters; Volunteer at non-profit home rescues or in-city trash cleanups events; Volunteer at Soup kitchens such as TLC (Tender Loving Christmas) when available.
My spouse is active duty military - 8412 USMC Career Recruiter and we set up and attend events like Toys for Tots and associate with the bike club that's affiliated with the United States Marine Corps called "Mc Leathernecks" that do a lot of events for the community.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Proven ability to supervise effectively within a team-oriented environment.
- Proficient communicator and proactive problem-solver.
- Strong organizational and interpersonal competencies.
- Exceptional marketing and sales skills.
- Versatile in demeanor, capable of being both composed and dynamically engaging.
- Highly skilled in interacting with individuals and animals.
GRADUATE / LAW SCHOOL
I am a dedicated, driven, and hardworking student. I have always worked twice as hard as those around me, which has taught me to never take anything for granted.