Professional Staff

Why Join Johnson Pope?

At Johnson Pope, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and professional environment where your skills are valued, and your contributions make a difference. As one of Florida’s leading regional law firms, we offer our team members the opportunity to work alongside some of the most respected attorneys in the state, in a firm that supports a strong team environment and actively builds community within the organization.

Paralegal – Commercial Real Estate | Finance

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is seeking a full-time, experienced Commercial Real Estate | Finance Paralegal to support our real estate and finance practice. Candidates must have five (5) years of demonstrated experience as a commercial real estate paralegal in a law firm.

Position Overview

Candidates must be able to manage complex commercial transactions from start to finish, including acquisitions, dispositions, financing, and multi-site developments across multiple jurisdictions. The ideal candidate will have strong experience with title and survey review, document preparation, and high-level client interaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the preparation and processing of commercial real estate and finance transactions from inception to closing.
• Order, review, and analyze title documents, title commitments, search reports, exception documents, surveys, inspections, and title endorsements.
• Coordinate due diligence for a variety of large commercial and residential real estate transactions.
• Administer contract critical dates and prepare and manage closing checklists.
• Assist with and coordinate closings, including the review and/or preparation of conveyance documents, closing statements, transfer tax forms, and escrow release documentation.
• Attend to post-closing requirements, including the preparation of closing indices, organizing closing binders, and monitoring post-closing deliveries and other requirements.
• Prepare correspondence and memoranda.
• Prepare lease and loan document abstracts.
• Review and summarize UCC, judgment, tax, and other lien searches.
• Draft and review business and real estate contracts.
• Review surveys.
• Prepare and file a variety of documents, including deeds, mortgages, memoranda of leases, UCC financing statements, etc.

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of title and survey processes, commercial closings, and real estate finance.
• Proficiency in preparing real estate documents, closing checklists, and title policy forms.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), with the ability to quickly learn other programs. Experience in iManage and Aderant is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.
• Effective problem-solving, analytical, and research skills.
• Attention to detail with strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously and work extra hours as needed.
• Self-motivated with a positive attitude.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a deadline-driven environment.

Educational/Job Experience Requirements:

• Florida Registered Paralegal preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• At least five (5) years of relevant experience in commercial real estate and/or finance transactions in a law firm setting.

Office Location: Tampa, FL.

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the Firm.

Equal Opportunity Employment:

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and do not discriminate on the basis of an applicant’s or employee’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, citizenship, ancestry, pregnancy, familial status, actual or perceived status as a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, or any other legally protected status entitled to protection under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws, including applicable laws in Florida. We also provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Link to Application

Legal Administrative Assistant | Litigation (HOA) 

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is seeking an experienced Legal Assistant to support an attorney whose practice is devoted primarily to representing homeowner, condominium, and cooperative associations (community associations). The ideal candidate will have a minimum of three (3) years of experience in a law firm setting.

Position Overview:

 The Legal Assistant will provide a combination of transactional document preparation, litigation support, and assessment collection assistance. Key responsibilities include preparing and typing dictation, managing case files, e-filing in state and federal courts, coordinating schedules and deadlines, and assisting with discovery and hearing or trial preparation.

 Key Responsibilities:

Community Association Governance & Document Support

• Support attorneys with the preparation and maintenance of association governing documents and related materials.
• Prepare required statutory notices and documentation in accordance with Chapters 718, 719, and 720, Florida Statutes, including board and membership meeting notices, budget and annual meeting materials, election documents, proxies, and committee notices.
• Draft association-related correspondence such as resolutions, consent documents, estoppel communications, compliance letters, and enforcement notices.

Litigation and Administrative Proceedings Support

• Provide litigation support primarily in Florida state court and administrative forums.
• Assist with preparing notices of hearing, mediation documentation, and trial or hearing materials.
• Manage litigation calendars and deadlines and coordinate the filing and service of pleadings through the Florida E-Filing Portal and electronic service systems.
• Support attorneys in arbitration, mediation, and settlement-related proceedings.
• Organize and maintain case files, including pleadings, exhibits, discovery, and correspondence.

Assessment Collections and Enforcement

• Assist with delinquent assessment matters, including preparing statutory demand letters, notices of intent to lien, and lien-related documentation.
• Draft and record claims of lien and assist with foreclosure filings and related court documents.
• Coordinate with property managers, title companies, boards, and other stakeholders.
• Monitor statutory deadlines related to collection and enforcement actions.
• Prepare correspondence regarding payment arrangements, settlements, and lien releases.

Administrative and Client Support

• Maintain consistent communication with association boards, property managers, and vendors.
• Assist with client intake, matter setup, and file organization.
• Ensure electronic and physical files are accurate and well maintained.
• Track key deadlines, statutory timeframes, and court dates.
• Provide administrative support related to billing and matter management.

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Attention to detail with strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), with the ability to quickly learn other programs. Experience in iManage and Aderant is a plus.
• Transcribe and manage dictation efficiently.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.
• Client service-oriented with the ability to effectively communicate with clients and team members.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize tasks, and work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive information.
• Ability to work extra hours as needed.
• Self-motivated with a willingness to learn.
• Ability to work independently while supporting the attorney and paralegal.

Educational/Job Experience Requirements:

• High school diploma from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a legal assistant.
• Experience with Community association law, Real estate law, Civil litigation, and Collections or foreclosure practice is strongly required.

Office Location: St. Petersburg, FL (In-Person)

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the Firm.

Equal Opportunity Employment:

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and do not discriminate on the basis of an applicant’s or employee’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, citizenship, ancestry, pregnancy, familial status, actual or perceived status as a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, or any other legally protected status entitled to protection under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws, including applicable laws in Florida. We also provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Link to Application

Legal Assistant | Commercial Real Estate & Finance

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is seeking a full-time Legal Assistant to support our Commercial Real Estate and Real Estate Finance practice group in our St. Petersburg office. The ideal candidate will be a proactive, highly organized professional capable of managing a diverse workload while balancing legal assistant and administrative responsibilities. This individual must demonstrate strong prioritization skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced legal environment.

Position Overview

This role provides support to attorneys handling commercial real estate transactions and real estate finance matters. Responsibilities include drafting and reviewing transactional documents, coordinating closings, managing deadlines, and supporting the overall operational needs of the practice group.

Key Responsibilities:

•  Prepare, proofread, and edit commercial real estate and finance transaction documents, including leases, purchase and sale agreements, loan documents, closing binders, easements, and title/survey review materials.
• Coordinate all aspects of transaction closings with clients, lenders, title companies, surveyors, and other third parties.
• Maintain deal checklists, monitor milestones, and assist attorneys with timely follow-up on transaction requirements.
• Manage attorney calendars, including scheduling client meetings, deadlines, and closings.
• Organize client documents and attorney work product within the firm’s document management system.
• Submit new business intake, conflict checks, and open/close client matters.
• Enter attorney time and assist with billing, including review and editing of pre-bills.
• Answer phone calls and routine inquiries from clients and team members or route calls appropriately.
• Perform general administrative duties such as file management, correspondence, expense reporting, CLE tracking, check requests, and other tasks as needed.

 Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of commercial real estate transactions and real estate finance terminology and closing processes.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), with the ability to quickly learn other programs. Experience in iManage and Aderant is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Client service oriented.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Discretion and professionalism in handling confidential information.
• Flexibility to work additional hours as needed.
• Self-motivated with a willingness to learn.

Educational/Job Experience Requirements:

• High school diploma from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of five (5) years of law firm experience supporting commercial real estate and/or real estate finance practices.
• Experience drafting transactional documents and coordinating complex closings is strongly preferred.

Office Location: St. Petersburg, FL (On-site)

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the Firm.

 Equal Opportunity Employment:

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and do not discriminate on the basis of an applicant’s or employee’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, citizenship, ancestry, pregnancy, familial status, actual or perceived status as a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, or any other legally protected status entitled to protection under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws, including applicable laws in Florida. We also provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Link to Application

Receptionist

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is seeking a full-time Receptionist with client service experience for our St. Petersburg office.  The Receptionist will work in a proactive environment with self-accountability.  Major duties include answering phones, conference room management and meeting and greeting clients ensuring a positive experience. The receptionist also serves as backup for Office Services.

Qualified candidates must demonstrate professionalism, confidentiality, initiative, flexibility, organizational skills, client service skills and the ability to be proactive.  Qualified candidates must also be proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, as well as electronic document management systems.  The ability to multi-task and prioritize tasks based on business needs is essential.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Greet guests in a friendly and professional manner over the phone and as they enter the office
• Possess phone Etiquette and Ability to communicate clearly and professionally
• Receive incoming mail and packages
• Manages the office’s calendar when scheduling conference rooms
• Validate and maintain the client parking validation log within the system and Excel tracking sheet
• Efficiently and thoroughly understand how to use all necessary Firm software
• Perform other administrative duties as assigned

Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Office Services backup):

• Sort and distribute incoming and interoffice mail including express and overnight mail
• Make photocopies and deliver finished project according to schedule
• Assist with troubleshooting technical problems with equipment such as copiers
• Meters mail and packages for delivery to post office/mailbox
• Court runs as required
• Perform other administrative duties as assigned

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent communication skills – written and oral
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Detail oriented
• Client service oriented
• Proficient knowledge of MS Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook with aptitude to learn other systems/programs
• Ability to multi-task and work well under pressure and meet deadlines
• Ability to work independently and as a team
• Effectively communicate and integrate with clients

Educational/Job Experience Requirements:

• High school diploma
• One (1) years of law firm experience preferred
• Availability for overtime as needed

Office Location: St. Petersburg, FL

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive.  Employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the Firm.

Equal Opportunity Employment:

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and do not discriminate on the basis of an applicant’s or employee’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, citizenship, ancestry, pregnancy, familial status, actual or perceived status as a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, or any other legally protected status entitled to protection under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws, including applicable laws in Florida. We also provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Link to Application

Legal Administrative Assistant – Tax | Private Client Services

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is seeking a full-time Legal Administrative Assistant (LAA) for our Clearwater office. The Candidate must have a minimum of three (3) years of experience in a law firm or family office setting. The LAA will perform a wide variety of legal administrative duties to attorneys specializing in the representation of ultra-high net worth individuals, families, and their related businesses. This role requires the highest level of discretion, professionalism, and attention to detail while managing administrative and secretarial support for complex legal matters involving sophisticated tax, estate planning, corporate, probate, and trust administration matters.

 Position Overview

Candidates must be able to efficiently and accurately manage the administrative responsibilities associated with complex tax, estate planning, corporate, probate, and trust administration matters while ensuring smooth operations and effective coordination of tasks across the team. The LAA will play a key role in preparing documents, coordinating with clients, maintaining accurate records, and supporting attorneys in the delivery of exceptional client service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare, proofread, and edit correspondence, including transmittal letters and correspondence to the Internal Revenue Service, ensuring accuracy in spelling, grammar, format, and content.
• Manage attorney calendars and open matters, including scheduling client meetings, hearings, and deadlines.
• Organize, maintain, and update client files (both electronic and physical), including estate planning binders and probate administration documents.
• Review and edit pre-bills, ensuring they are ready for attorneys’ review and approval.
• Drafting correspondence to clients with invoices and addressing billing related questions.
• Submit new business intake and conflicts checks and opening/closing of client matters.
• Answer telephone calls and routine questions from clients and team members, and/or routing calls to appropriate staff.
• Perform administrative duties such as client file management, general correspondence, expense reports, CLE tracking, check requests, and other administrative tasks.

Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Attention to detail with strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), with the ability to quickly learn other programs. Experience in iManage and Aderant is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.
• Client service-oriented with the ability to effectively communicate with clients and team members.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize tasks, and work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive information.
• Ability to work extra hours as needed.
• Self-motivated with a willingness to learn.

Educational/Job Experience Requirements:

• High school diploma from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in a law firm or family office setting is preferred.
• Experience with trust and estate, corporate diligence, or tax.
• Is a notary public or is eligible and will apply shortly following acceptance of the role.

Office Location: Clearwater, FL

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the Firm.

Equal Opportunity Employment:

Johnson Pope Bokor Ruppel & Burns, LLP is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and do not discriminate on the basis of an applicant’s or employee’s race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, citizenship, ancestry, pregnancy, familial status, actual or perceived status as a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking, or any other legally protected status entitled to protection under federal, state, or local anti-discrimination laws, including applicable laws in Florida. We also provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Link to Application