Jessica McDonald was recently featured in the Carolina Paralegal News section of South Carolina Lawyers Weekly. In the article, Jessica discusses her passion for construction law and civil litigation, her approach to staying organized while managing complex cases, and what drew her to the paralegal profession. You can read the original article on South Carolina Lawyers Weekly.

Civil litigation paralegal embraces rhythm of her busy law firm 

As a civil litigation paralegal at Rosen Hagood, Jessica McDonald loves applying her skills and experience to construction disputes and employment law and she is fascinated with the legal work that goes on behind the scenes. 

“I enjoy construction law because it’s interesting to learn about different buildings and methods for construction along with construction defects,” she says. “The great part about civil litigation is there is always an opportunity to learn something new.”

Originally from Marietta, Georgia, McDonald was in middle school when she moved to Charleston with her family. She attended College of Charleston and developed an interest in law while taking a business law course. A few more law-related courses led her to earn her associate degree in paralegal studies from Trident Technical College. 

What does a typical day at work look like? 

I normally start the day by checking emails and reviewing the calendar to see what is scheduled that day and the rest of the week. After that, a typical day normally involves taking care of any urgent tasks if we are preparing for a deposition or trial for example. Other days might involve more long-term projects such as responding to discovery or reviewing documents. It really depends on what is going on with the current caseload.   

What is the most rewarding aspect of your work? 

The most rewarding aspect of my work is when our team can help a client reach a final resolution of their case. The small wins that come along the way in litigation are rewarding as well.   

How do you stay organized? 

I keep several lists and look at the calendar often to monitor upcoming events or deadlines that require advance preparation. I prefer to focus on one case at a time even if there are multiple tasks within that case to be completed.   

Name someone in your life who has influenced you: 

Professionally, I was influenced by a paralegal I interned with. I ended up working with her in my first paralegal role and she was always patient and helpful and shared a lot of good experience with me. I have also been fortunate to work with several good attorneys who are always willing to help and offer their guidance. 

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working? 

Outside of work, I enjoy visiting the mountains in North Carolina with my husband and dogs, working in the yard and trying new restaurants in Charleston.