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Litigation Associate Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Litigation Associate

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$105K - $150K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Nichols Kaster is adding an associate attorney to its nationwide class action litigation team. The firm's focus is on representing people, not corporations or the ...

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Litigation Associate information

See Minnesota salary details

$34.8K

$135.4K

$210.1K

How much do litigation associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for litigation associate in Minnesota is $135,429.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,900.00 and $161,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Litigation Associate vs Litigation Attorney?

AspectLitigation AssociateLitigation Attorney
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar AdmissionJuris Doctor (JD), Bar Admission
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departmentsLaw firms, corporate legal departments
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in law firms and corporate legal teamsUsed interchangeably with Litigation Associate, more formal
Search & Comparison IntentHigh overlap, often compared for career progression

While both Litigation Associates and Litigation Attorneys hold similar credentials and work in comparable environments, the term Litigation Associate is often used for early-career roles within law firms or corporate legal teams. Litigation Attorneys may be a broader or more formal designation, but in many contexts, they are interchangeable. The key difference lies in the job title's usage rather than responsibilities or qualifications.

What does a litigation associate do?

A litigation associate is a lawyer who assists with preparing and managing legal cases in court. They conduct research, draft legal documents, analyze evidence, and support senior attorneys throughout the litigation process, often using legal research tools and adhering to deadlines.

What is the lowest position in a law firm?

The lowest position in a law firm is typically a legal assistant or legal secretary, responsible for administrative tasks and supporting attorneys. Entry-level roles such as clerks or interns may also be considered initial positions for those starting their legal careers.

Is an associate still a lawyer?

A litigation associate is a lawyer who works under the supervision of partners in a law firm, handling cases, research, and client interactions. Being an associate confirms that they are licensed attorneys practicing law within their jurisdiction. The title indicates a legal professional actively practicing law, often with responsibilities that develop skills for partnership or senior roles.

What are some typical challenges Litigation Associates face when managing multiple cases simultaneously?

Litigation Associates often juggle several cases at once, which requires strong organizational and time management skills. Balancing competing deadlines for court filings, discovery, and client communications can be challenging, especially during peak litigation periods. Associates must also coordinate with partners, paralegals, and opposing counsel, making effective communication crucial. Developing systems to prioritize tasks and manage workload efficiently is key to success in this fast-paced environment.

What is a career in litigation?

A career in litigation involves representing clients in legal disputes, including preparing cases, conducting research, and advocating in court. Litigation associates typically work for law firms or corporate legal departments, requiring strong analytical, research, and communication skills, often with a focus on trial preparation and legal strategy.

What is a Litigation Associate?

A Litigation Associate is a junior attorney who works at a law firm or legal department, primarily handling cases that involve disputes between parties. They assist with tasks such as legal research, drafting pleadings and motions, managing discovery, and representing clients in court under the supervision of more senior attorneys. Litigation Associates often work on a variety of cases, including civil, commercial, and sometimes criminal matters, and are responsible for keeping cases on track and supporting clients throughout the litigation process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Litigation Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Litigation Associate, you need strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills, typically supported by a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and bar admission. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency in case management software are essential. Exceptional communication, attention to detail, and the ability to manage time effectively distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for building persuasive cases, meeting tight deadlines, and achieving successful outcomes for clients in a competitive legal environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Litigation jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Litigation jobs in Minnesota are:
What job categories do people searching Litigation Associate jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Litigation Associate jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Litigation Associate jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Litigation Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Litigation Associate job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,429 per year, or $65.1 per hour.
Litigation Associate

$185K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Nelson Mullins is seeking a Litigation Associate to join its litigation group in the Minneapolis office. As an AmLaw100 firm, this will offer a unique opportunity to a lateral associate who wants to be part of a dynamic team in a growing location.


Firm attorneys in Minneapolis have practiced primarily in the area of products liability defense, although they also regularly handle other types of cases, including premises liability, breach of warranty, breach of contract, and other general commercial litigation. They regularly represent some of the world’s foremost medical device, consumer product, industrial, and automotive manufacturers, and they have tried numerous cases to defense verdicts on behalf of their clients. You will be joining a highly skilled team of attorneys who have substantial courtroom experience at the state and federal levels.

All candidates are asked to submit a cover letter, resume, and a copy of your law school transcript.


You have at least 3-5 years of meaningful experience in civil litigation, class actions, general commercial litigation, and other complex litigation matters, including products liability or multi-district litigation in a mid-size or large law firm setting. You’re prepared to draft and argue discovery and other motions, take and defend depositions, manage document productions, and bring an entrepreneurial spirit to a growing office. You possess exceptional oral and written advocacy skills with strong academic credentials. You are adept in case management, ready to take the lead, and are admitted to and in good standing with the Minnesota Bar.  Will consider applicants with admission to other state bars who have a willingness to become a member of the Minnesota bar.

  • At Nelson Mullins, we are dedicated to transparent and fair compensation practices. Pay for this position is determined by factors such as experience, skills, and location. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for performance bonuses and benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off.
    • In Minnesota, the salary/wage range is $185,000 - $205,000 annually. 

With more than 1,000 attorneys, policy advisors, e-discovery professionals and other business professionals across offices in California, Colorado, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia, and throughout North Carolina and South Carolina Nelson Mullins has strong roots in the business community and an appreciation for new directions in the business world.