Commercial Litigation Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$235K - $365K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Direct Counsel is seeking a Litigation Associate Attorney to join a highly respected Am Law firm’s Chicago office.

Position Overview
A leading national firm is seeking a junior to mid-level Associate Attorney with approximately 3–5 years of litigation experience to join its Litigation Group in Chicago. This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney with strong foundational litigation skills to join a sophisticated practice handling complex commercial, regulatory, and high-stakes disputes.

The ideal candidate will have experience with discovery, drafting briefs, and assisting with pre-trial preparation. Exposure to or interest in cybersecurity and data privacy issues is a plus, particularly given the group’s growing work in technology-related disputes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage and support all phases of complex commercial litigation matters
  • Conduct discovery, including document review, production, and deposition preparation
  • Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other litigation filings
  • Assist with pre-trial strategy, hearings, and trial preparation
  • Support attorneys on matters involving securities litigation, class actions, commercial disputes, and regulatory investigations
  • Collaborate on cybersecurity, data privacy, and technology-related litigation matters as needed

Qualifications

  • Approximately 3–5 years of litigation experience
  • Prior law firm experience preferred
  • Strong experience with discovery and brief writing required
  • Exposure to complex commercial litigation, class actions, or regulatory matters preferred
  • Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills
  • Strong academic credentials and demonstrated attention to detail
  • Ability to handle multiple matters in a fast-paced litigation environment

Compensation
The anticipated base salary for this Chicago-based Associate Attorney position is $235,000–$365,000 annually, depending on experience and other job-related factors consistent with applicable law. The role may also be eligible for a discretionary year-end bonus.

Additional Information
The firm offers a robust lateral integration and mentorship program designed to support attorneys during career transitions. Attorneys also benefit from strong professional development resources, a hybrid work model, and an extensive pro bono program that encourages meaningful public service engagement.

Equal Opportunity Employer
The firm is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable employment laws. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application process upon request.



Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Litigation Attorney Associate?

A: To succeed as a Litigation Attorney Associate, key technical skills include proficiency in legal research, analysis, and writing, as well as knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and court procedures. Soft skills such as strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities, along with emotional intelligence and adaptability, are also crucial for building effective relationships with clients, colleagues, and judges. By combining these technical and soft skills, a Litigation Attorney Associate can effectively navigate complex cases, build a strong reputation, and lay the foundation for future career advancement in the field.

Q: What is the career path for a Litigation Attorney Associate?

A: A Litigation Attorney Associate typically progresses through a career path that includes entry-level roles such as Junior Associate, where they assist senior attorneys with case preparation and research, to mid-level roles like Senior Associate, where they take on more significant responsibilities, including trial preparation and client communication. As they gain experience, they can move into senior roles like Counsel or Partner, where they lead teams, manage cases, and contribute to firm strategy. Throughout their career, Litigation Attorney Associates can develop skills in areas like trial advocacy, negotiation, and client management, as well as opportunities to specialize in specific practice areas, such as intellectual property or securities law.



Direct Counsel job posting for a Commercial Litigation Associate Attorney in Chicago, IL with a salary of $235,000 to $365,000 Annually with a map of Chicago location.