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Litigation Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 41-60

Litigation Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$142.4K

$221K

How much do litigation associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for litigation associate in Chicago, IL is $142,445.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,100.00 and $170,000.00 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 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 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Litigation jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Litigation Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Litigation Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Litigation Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Litigation Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Litigation Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Litigation Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Litigation Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $142,445 per year, or $68.5 per hour.

Commercial Litigation Associate Attorney

Segal McCambridge

Chicago, IL โ€ข Hybrid

$115K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Segal McCambridge is seeking an Associate Attorney to join our Commercial Litigation Group in our Chicago office. This is an exceptional opportunity for an attorney with 2+ years of litigation experience who is looking to accelerate their career by handling complex, high-impact matters while working alongside accomplished trial lawyers in a collaborative environment.

From day one, you'll have the opportunity to manage your own caseload with partner guidance, interact directly with clients, appear in court, take and defend depositions, participate in mediations, and play an integral role in trial preparation. You'll gain exposure to a diverse range of litigation while building the skills and experience needed to advance your career.

This is a hybrid position offering a flexible combination of in-office collaboration and remote work.

What You'll Work On

You'll represent clients in sophisticated litigation matters, including:

  • Commercial litigation, including contract disputes, business torts, fraud, and statutory claims
  • Intellectual property litigation
  • Class action defense
  • Product liability
  • Professional liability
  • Life sciences
  • Technology and cybersecurity disputes

What You'll Do

As an Associate Attorney, you will:

  • Manage an active litigation caseload from inception through resolution
  • Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, and other litigation documents
  • Conduct legal research and develop litigation strategy
  • Take and defend depositions
  • Attend hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials
  • Investigate facts and develop case strategy
  • Communicate directly with clients, insurers, opposing counsel, and experts
  • Collaborate with experienced partners while taking increasing responsibility for your cases

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

  • Active Illinois law license
  • At least 2 years of civil litigation experience
  • Prior commercial litigation experience
  • Experience drafting pleadings, motions, discovery, and other litigation documents
  • Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and advocacy skills
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
  • A proactive mindset and desire to take ownership of your work
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Licensure in an additional jurisdiction
  • Federal court experience
  • Experience with mediations or arbitrations
  • Trial experience

Why Join Segal McCambridge?

At Segal McCambridge, associates are more than supporting attorneys-they are trusted members of the litigation team. You'll work on sophisticated matters for national clients while receiving the mentorship, training, and courtroom opportunities needed to build a successful litigation career.

We offer:

  • Meaningful responsibility early in your career
  • Direct mentorship from experienced trial attorneys
  • Exposure to complex, high-profile litigation
  • A collaborative and supportive team culture
  • Clear opportunities for advancement within a growing national firm
  • Competitive compensation
  • Performance bonus opportunities
  • Business development and origination credit
  • Hybrid work flexibility

Benefits

  • 401(k) with firm match
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid parental leave
  • Professional development and continuing education support
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee referral program
  • Employee discounts

About Segal McCambridge

For nearly four decades, Segal McCambridge has built a reputation as a premier national litigation firm. Founded in Chicago in 1986, the firm has grown from four attorneys to a nationwide practice with offices across the United States.

Our attorneys represent Fortune 500 companies, national corporations, insurers, and businesses in complex litigation across a broad range of industries, including commercial litigation, class actions, employment, environmental, insurance coverage, life sciences, product liability, professional liability, technology and cyber risk, transportation, construction, food and beverage, and warranty matters.

If you're looking for a litigation role where you'll gain real responsibility, develop your trial skills, and build your career alongside experienced attorneys who are invested in your success, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your resume to apply.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME