Litigation / Intellectual Property Associate Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

Litigation / Intellectual Property Associate Attorney
Hartford, CT | New Haven, CT

Direct Counsel is seeking a Litigation / Intellectual Property Associate to join a well-established regional law firm with a nationally recognized litigation and intellectual property practice . This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with commercial litigation and intellectual property experience who is looking to work on sophisticated disputes for a diverse client base ranging from emerging businesses to globally recognized brands.

About the Role

The firm's Intellectual Property & Technology and Litigation teams represent clients across a broad spectrum of industries, including financial services, technology, sports and entertainment, healthcare, life sciences, consumer products, and wellness.

Associates in this role will work on a variety of matters involving:

• Trademark litigation

• Copyright litigation

• Trade secret disputes

• False advertising and unfair competition claims

• Intellectual property licensing disputes

• Commercial contract disputes

• Business tort and unfair trade practices claims

• Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) proceedings

• Online trademark and copyright enforcement matters

• Alternative dispute resolution proceedings

• Complex commercial litigation in state and federal courts

This role provides substantial hands-on litigation experience and the opportunity to work directly with clients and experienced trial attorneys on sophisticated matters.

Responsibilities

Associates will be involved in all phases of litigation, including:

• Drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, and other court filings

• Conducting legal research and developing litigation strategy

• Managing discovery and e-discovery matters

• Preparing and responding to written discovery

• Taking and defending depositions

• Attending court conferences, hearings, and mediations

• Participating in trial preparation and case management

• Handling trademark enforcement efforts, including cease-and-desist letters and takedown notices

• Assisting with TTAB proceedings and intellectual property disputes

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials.

• 2–3 years of commercial litigation and/or intellectual property litigation experience.

• Experience handling trademark, copyright, and trade secret disputes preferred.

• Familiarity with claims arising under:

  • The Lanham Act

  • The Copyright Act

  • Common law trademark infringement

  • Breach of contract

  • Unfair trade practices

  • Licensing disputes

• Experience with TTAB proceedings, UDRP complaints, and online brand enforcement is a plus.

• Judicial clerkship experience is a plus.

• Excellent legal writing, research, and advocacy skills.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Exceptional organizational and project management skills.

• Client-focused mindset and strong interpersonal skills.

• Connecticut Bar admission in good standing is required.

Why Consider This Opportunity

This position offers the opportunity to join a collaborative and growing team handling sophisticated litigation matters across a variety of industries.

Attorneys in this practice benefit from:

• Exposure to high-profile intellectual property and commercial litigation matters.

• Meaningful client interaction and increasing levels of responsibility.

• Direct mentorship from experienced litigators and IP practitioners.

• A collaborative and supportive team culture.

• Opportunities to develop courtroom, deposition, and trial skills.

• Long-term career growth within a respected and expanding practice.

Work Environment

The firm offers a hybrid work environment that balances flexibility with collaboration, allowing attorneys to work remotely up to two days per week while maintaining meaningful in-office engagement with colleagues and clients.

Compensation & Benefits

The firm offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits, professional development resources, and mentorship opportunities designed to support long-term career success.

This is an excellent opportunity for a litigation associate seeking sophisticated intellectual property and commercial litigation work within a collegial, team-oriented environment that encourages professional growth and advancement.