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Litigation Partner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Gould & Ratner LLP is seeking an experienced attorney to join its Litigation Practice. This attorney will have significant commercial and/or real estate litigation experience, including first chair ...

Gould & Ratner LLP is seeking an experienced attorney to join its Litigation Practice. This attorney will have significant commercial and/or real estate litigation experience, including first chair ...

Gould & Ratner LLP is seeking an experienced attorney to join its Litigation Practice. This attorney will have significant commercial and/or real estate litigation experience, including first chair ...

Partner

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$200K - $300K/yr

... or Litigation, and will be responsible for developing client relationships and driving business ... partner status, marital status, status as a crime victim, disability, protected veteran status, or ...

Be Seen First

We have an immediate opening for an experienced and highly organized Plaintiff's Litigation Secretary to support a Senior Partner . This is a full-time, in-office position for a motivated ...

Commercial Litigation Attorney

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$160K - $200K/yr

Commercial Litigation Attorney | $160k-$200k+ | Hybrid | Unlimited PTO | Pension + Bonuses This ... partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not ...

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Litigation Partner information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$185.9K

$257.5K

$412.1K

How much do litigation partner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for litigation partner in Chicago, IL is $257,536.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $213,800.00 and $239,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a litigation partner in balancing client expectations with case realities?

As a Litigation Partner, one of the most significant challenges is managing client expectations, especially regarding case timelines, outcomes, and costs. Clients often expect swift resolutions, but complex litigation can involve lengthy discovery, unpredictable court schedules, and evolving legal arguments. Partners must communicate transparently about risks and realistic outcomes while maintaining client trust and satisfaction. Balancing these aspects requires excellent communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate both legal and interpersonal complexities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a litigation partner?

To thrive as a Litigation Partner, you need extensive experience in litigation, a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a proven record of managing complex cases. Expertise with legal research databases (such as LexisNexis or Westlaw), case management software, and courtroom technology is often required. Strong leadership, business development acumen, negotiation skills, and the ability to mentor junior attorneys are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are vital for driving successful case outcomes, maintaining client relationships, and ensuring the firm's continued growth and reputation.

What is a litigation partner?

Litigation Partners are senior attorneys in a law firm who specialize in representing clients in lawsuits and legal disputes. They typically lead litigation teams, develop case strategies, and manage relationships with clients. As partners, they also share in the ownership and profits of the firm, and often have responsibilities for business development and firm management. Litigation Partners usually have many years of experience and are recognized for their expertise in handling complex legal cases.

What is the difference between Litigation Partner vs Litigation Associate?

AspectLitigation PartnerLitigation Associate
CredentialsJD degree, bar admission, extensive experienceJD degree, bar admission, 1-3 years of experience
Work EnvironmentLeadership role, client management, strategic decision-makingResearch, drafting, court filings, supporting senior attorneys
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporate legal departmentsLaw firms, corporate legal departments

In summary, a Litigation Partner typically holds a senior leadership role with extensive experience, overseeing cases and managing client relationships. A Litigation Associate is an entry- to mid-level attorney supporting litigation efforts under supervision. The main difference lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership level within the legal team.

Infographic showing various Litigation Partner job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $257,536 per year, or $123.8 per hour.

Litigation Partner

Gould & Ratner LLP

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Gould & Ratner LLP is seeking an experienced attorney to join its Litigation Practice. This attorney will have significant commercial and/or real estate litigation experience, including first chair trial experience, developing litigation strategy, managing clients, and overseeing and handling all other aspects of litigation. This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney who is highly motivated and seeking a positive career trajectory. We are looking for an attorney who has an established book of business and who can also step into and assist with key existing client relationships and being part of the Firm's overall succession plan. Please note that this role allows a flexible work schedule with a hybrid remote/in-office presence.
Requirements
  • 10+ years of litigation experience, including first chair trial experience in state and/or federal court, developing litigation strategy, managing clients, mentoring junior attorneys, and overseeing and handling all other aspects of litigation.
  • Significant experience handling commercial and/or real estate litigation (breach of contract, shareholder/LLC disputes, restrictive covenants, breach of fiduciary duty, UCC disputes, title disputes, issues relating to leases, reciprocal operating agreements, easements and other real estate related documents, etc),
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills. The ideal candidate will have the confidence and demeanor to build relationships with the Firm's current clients, as well as the drive and ability to develop additional client relationships and business.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills. The ideal candidate will be able to efficiently manage multiple matters at a time and produce exceptional work product under tight deadlines.
  • The ideal candidate will have the ability to work as part of a team but will also possess the experience and skills necessary to lead a case from inception to completion.
  • A drive for excellence and a willingness to take the initiative to solve problems. The ideal candidate will be an ambitious and highly motivated attorney who always strives to achieve the best possible result for the client.
  • Detail-oriented and thorough. This attorney must demonstrate meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of their practice.
  • Sharp oral advocacy skills with deposition and/or courtroom experience (oral argument, witness examination, opening/closing statement etc).
  • Portable business required
  • Candidates must be currently licensed in Illinois or licensed in another state with a UBE score that qualifies in Illinois for comity, be eligible to waive in, or be willing to sit for an upcoming IL bar exam (open to relocation candidates that meet these requirements).

Benefits
โ€ข Comprehensive benefit package and competitive compensation - more info can be found here https://www.gouldratner.com/uploaded_images/GR-salary%20scale-benefits-page-2-01-21-25.pdf
โ€ข Emphasis on professional & business development.
โ€ข Low turnover, collegial and collaborative environment.
โ€ข Healthcare (medical, vision, dental), life and long-term disability insurance.
โ€ข Competitive compensation, benefits package including 401k and profit sharing.
โ€ข Paid primary and secondary caregiver leave.
โ€ข Generous vacation, personal, & sick time allowance.
โ€ข Pre-tax commuter benefits and wellness programs (e.g., in-office gym and massages; 24/7 tele-medicine).
โ€ข Hybrid in-office/remote role. Gould & Ratner's current in-office policy requires attorneys to be in the office 10 days a month