Associate Attorney

Salary/Compensation is negotiable and commensurate with experience *Overview* We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Associate Attorney to join our general-practice law firm. The firm currently maintains a broad, client-focused practice serving individuals, businesses, local governments, and families throughout Southern Illinois and the Metro-East. Our firm is focused on the practice of law and representing people not only legal issues. We also are dedicated to cultivating a healthy work-life balance culture for our employees. This position is intended to be a long-term, partnership-track opportunity for the right candidate. The firm is particularly interested in an attorney who wants meaningful hands-on experience, direct mentorship, client contact, and the ability to develop a well-rounded legal practice. While the firm has current needs in litigation, estate planning, and probate, candidates interested in any area of law are encouraged to apply. In addition, the role offers an exciting opportunity to work across a diverse range of legal areas, including general civil practice, civil litigation, criminal law, estate planning, probate and trust administration, real estate, municipal and local government law, corporate, M&A and transactional matters, and other general-practice matters based on our clients’ needs. This position is a paid opportunity designed for motivated legal professionals eager to grow their expertise in a collaborative environment. The firm is primarily based in Centralia, Illinois, with plans to expand. The position is primarily in-office, but the firm supports reasonable flexibility for remote work when appropriate. *Responsibilities* * Conduct comprehensive legal research utilizing Westlaw and other legal research resources to support case strategies across multiple practice areas * Draft and review legal documents including pleadings, contracts, memoranda, and correspondence with precision and clarity * Drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, discovery, correspondence, contracts, estate planning documents, probate filings, real estate documents, and other legal documents * Assisting partners with litigation, estate planning, probate, real estate, municipal, and general civil matters * Support partners in negotiations with clients and opposing counsel to achieve favorable outcomes * Prepare for court appearances by organizing case files and summarizing key issues * Maintain meticulous records of case developments and administrative tasks within the law office management system * Managing assigned files and deadlines * Building practical experience in a small-firm environment with direct attorney mentorship * Engage in ongoing legal research to stay current on relevant laws and regulations affecting various practice areas *Requirements* * 0–2 years of legal experience preferred, though more experienced attorneys are welcome to apply * Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school * License to practice law in Illinois, eligibility for admission in Illinois, or pending Illinois bar results. Missouri license is a plus, particularly for candidates who are also licensed in Illinois or intend to become licensed in Illinois * Proven experience in legal research using Westlaw or similar platforms * Strong writing skills with the ability to produce clear and persuasive legal documents * Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment * Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills * Good judgment, professionalism, and attention to detail * Strong communication skills and a client-focused approach * Interest in practicing in a small-firm, general-practice setting * Willingness to learn multiple practice areas * Desire to build a long-term legal career in Southern Illinois *Compensation* Compensation is negotiable and commensurate with experience. Benefits may include: * Health insurance opportunity * Paid time off * Paid holidays * SIMPLE IRA matching program * Firm-provided laptop * Reasonable billable expectations * No fixed minimum billable-hour requirement * Work-life balance focused culture * Direct mentorship from experienced partner-attorneys * Partnership-track opportunity for the right candidate *Application Instructions* Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter through Indeed. Candidates with 0–1 year of experience should also submit a writing sample and law school transcript. All inquiries and applications will be kept confidential. *Equal Employment Opportunity* The firm is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The firm does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, military status, marital status, order of protection status, unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Pay: $75,000.00 - $95,000.