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Defense Litigation Associate Attorney Jobs in Washington

LAW FIRM

Litigation Associate Attorney

Reston, VA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Rees Broome, PC--consistently recognized as a Top 20 Law Firm in Virginia --is seeking a dedicated Associate Attorney with 2-4 years of general collections or litigation experience to join our ...

Berenzweig Leonard, LLP

Litigation Attorney

Mclean, VA · On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

... associate with 2-4 years of relevant experience to support our busy and growing employment and business law practice. Work entails employment defense litigation, restrictive covenant litigation ...

TekSky

Litigation Associate Attorney

Tysons, VA · On-site

$95K - $150K/yr

a construction and litigation law firm is searching for a full-time attorney. The ideal candidate ... defense work is a plus Required Qualifications: • Law degree from an ABA accredited University ...

Hartel, DeSantis & Murray, LLP

Be Seen First

Associate Attorney - Litigation

Arlington, VA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Hartel, DeSantis & Murray, LLP , an AV-rated Maryland based litigation law firm focusing on insurance defense and plaintiff personal injury in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia, seeks an associate attorney ...

Hartel, DeSantis & Murray, LLP

Be Seen First

Associate Attorney - Litigation

Arlington, VA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Hartel, DeSantis & Murray, LLP , an AV-rated Maryland based litigation law firm focusing on insurance defense and plaintiff personal injury in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia, seeks an associate attorney ...

Trueseek

Workers' Compensation Attorney

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$120K - $170K/yr

The Virginia workers' compensation practice is expanding and seeking an experienced Workers' Compensation Associate Attorney to join a growing team handling sophisticated defense litigation matters.

Trueseek

Workers' Compensation Attorney

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$120K - $170K/yr

The Virginia workers' compensation practice is expanding and seeking an experienced Workers' Compensation Associate Attorney to join a growing team handling sophisticated defense litigation matters.

Newport Williams

Litigation Associate

Washington, DC · On-site

Collaborate closely with senior attorneys on strategy and case management Helpful (Not Required ... Experience on both plaintiff- and defense-side matters is a plus Compensation: Competitive salary ...

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Defense Litigation Associate Attorney information

What does a defense litigation associate attorney do?

A Defense Litigation Associate Attorney represents clients, usually businesses or individuals, who are being sued or face legal claims in civil court. Their responsibilities include investigating cases, drafting legal documents, conducting depositions, negotiating settlements, and appearing in court on behalf of clients. These attorneys work closely with senior partners and clients to develop effective defense strategies. They must be skilled in research, writing, and oral advocacy. The work often involves juggling multiple cases and meeting strict deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense litigation associate attorney?

To thrive as a Defense Litigation Associate Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Familiarity with litigation management software, legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and e-discovery tools is typically required. Excellent negotiation, communication, and time management skills set outstanding associates apart in complex, high-stakes cases. These skills and qualities are vital to effectively represent clients, manage caseloads, and achieve favorable outcomes in adversarial legal environments.

What are some common challenges faced by defense litigation associate attorneys in managing multiple cases simultaneously?

Defense Litigation Associate Attorneys often handle several cases at once, each with distinct timelines, clients, and legal complexities. Balancing these demands requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks such as drafting motions, conducting discovery, and attending hearings. Effective communication with supervising partners, clients, and opposing counsel is essential to ensure deadlines are met and case strategies are aligned. Time management and adaptability are crucial for thriving in this fast-paced environment, as unexpected developments can arise that require immediate attention.

What is the difference between Defense Litigation Associate Attorney vs Defense Litigation Attorney?

AspectDefense Litigation Associate AttorneyDefense Litigation Attorney
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar admissionJuris Doctor (JD), Bar admission
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in case preparation, research, drafting documentsManaging cases, client interactions, courtroom appearances

The main difference is that a Defense Litigation Associate Attorney is an entry- to mid-level role supporting senior attorneys, while a Defense Litigation Attorney typically has more experience and handles cases independently. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the attorney role involves more client and courtroom responsibilities.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Defense Litigation Associate Attorney jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Defense Litigation Associate Attorney job openings:

Defense Litigation Associate Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Litigation Associate Attorney job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Commercial Litigation Associate Attorney

Washington, DC • Hybrid

Wilson Elser - Attorneys
Law Firms • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Wilson Elser - Attorneysexternal

$150K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage all phases of complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts.

  • Draft pleadings, dispositive motions, briefs, and other substantive legal filings.

  • Represent clients in court appearances, hearings, mediations, and other litigation proceedings.

Job description

At Wilson Elser, we are redefining what it means to work at a national law firm. With more than 1,400 attorneys across 46 offices nationwide, we are recognized among the top 100 law firms by The American Lawyer and ranked #30 in the National Law Journal's survey of the nation's largest law firms.

Our continued success is built on a culture of collaboration, innovation, client service, and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering an environment where attorneys are empowered to grow their careers, contribute meaningfully, and thrive professionally.

Our firm is committed to attracting and retaining professionals who value each other and the service we provide by embracing Teamwork, Collaboration, Client Service, and Innovation.  If you are a motivated professional looking for a long-term fit where you can grow in a role, and will be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply to our Commercial Litigation Associate Attorney. While the position is based in our Chicago office, we welcome applicants from across the United States and are open to hires reporting to other regional offices if located elsewhere.

This position offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement.

The Position

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced litigation attorney who is eager for career advancement and to take on significant, substantive responsibilities in defending complex class actions, including cyber and privacy cases. While experience with cyber class actions is preferred, it is not required; strong class action litigation experience is essential.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage all phases of complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts.
  • Draft pleadings, dispositive motions, briefs, and other substantive legal filings.
  • Conduct legal research and develop litigation strategies.
  • Prepare and respond to written discovery, oversee e-discovery, and take and defend depositions.
  • Represent clients in court appearances, hearings, mediations, and other litigation proceedings.
  • Collaborate with clients, experts, and internal teams to develop case strategy and achieve successful outcomes.
  • Effectively manage multiple matters while meeting deadlines and maintaining exceptional client service.

Qualifications

  • J.D. from an accredited law school and admission to the applicable state bar.
  • 5–15+ years of commercial litigation experience handling matters in state and federal courts.
  • Experience managing all phases of litigation, including written discovery, depositions, and e-discovery.
  • Strong motion practice experience, including drafting motions to dismiss and motions for summary judgment.
  • Proficiency conducting legal research using LexisNexis and Westlaw.
  • Excellent legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple matters independently while working collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Class action litigation experience is a plus.
  • Cyber, privacy, or technology litigation experience is a plus, but not required.

Wilson Elser offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our attorneys both professionally and personally.

A variety of factors are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, education, licensure and/or certifications, geographic location, market demands, other business and organizational needs, and other factors permitted by law. This position is also eligible for discretionary bonuses. Final salary wages offered may be outside of this range based on other reasons and individual circumstances.  This position is considered full-time and therefore qualifies for benefits including 401(k) retirement savings plan, medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. 

Salary Range:
$150,000—$190,000 USD

Why Join Wilson Elser?

  • Meaningful Work: Handle sophisticated matters alongside experienced attorneys and partners
  • Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive team environment that values mentorship and professional development 
  • Advancement: Gain opportunities for long-term growth within a nationally recognized firm
  • Hybrid Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible hybrid work arrangement that supports work-life balance
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, generous PTO, 401(k) match, and robust medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
  • Additional Perks: Access to corporate discount programs and employee benefits
Wilson Elser welcomes submissions of candidates for our open positions exclusively from recruitment agencies with an active, signed fee agreement who have been granted access to a position through our dedicated Recruitment Agency Portal. We are unable to consider submissions from recruitment agencies without a current (dated as of 7/1/2024) agreement in place. We appreciate your understanding. For collaboration inquiries or to establish an agreement, please contact us at talentacquisition@wilsonelser.com.Wilson Elser is committed to a collegial work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.  It is the Firm's policy that employment will be based on merit, qualifications, and competence. Further, employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicants race, color, age, sex, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, physical or mental disability, status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking, past or present service in the uniformed services or application or obligation to serve in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected by law. Wilson Elser endeavors to make the Wilson Elser website accessible to any and all users.  You may review our Accessibility Policy here.California Residents may review our CCPA notice for applicants and employees here.