Associate Attorney - Civil Litigation

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Independently manage civil litigation and family law matters from initial evaluation through trial, with partner support and guidance as needed.
• Advise clients regarding legal options, case strategy, and court procedures.
• Conduct legal research, investigate factual issues, and analyze financial records.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, stipulations, agreements, proposed orders, and notices required under the South Dakota Rules of Civil Procedure.
• Review and manage discovery in compliance with applicable deadlines and procedural rules.
• Coordinate with expert witnesses when appropriate to support litigation strategy.
• Prepare for and participate in mediations, hearings, and trials.
• Develop and execute negotiation strategies in collaboration with clients.
• Communicate professionally with clients, courts, opposing counsel, experts, and colleagues.
• Maintain organized files, accurate time records, and compliance with ethical and professional standards.

Job Requirements

Required Qualifications
• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
• Active South Dakota law license, or eligibility for prompt admission, in good standing.
• 2-5 years of civil litigation, family law, or related legal experience.
• Strong research, writing, advocacy, analytical, organizational, and client-service skills.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience handling depositions, mediations, hearings, or trial preparation.
• Familiarity with business disputes, divorce, custody, support, or protection order matters.
• Experience practicing in South Dakota state or federal courts.
• Ability to effectively counsel clients in sensitive or high-conflict situations.