Lead Attorney

Job Overview A plaintiff-side employment law firm is seeking a Lead Attorney or Partner to join its Charlotte, North Carolina office. This position is designed for an experienced employment litigator who can independently manage a sophisticated caseload involving employment disputes through all stages of litigation. The role includes representing employees in state and federal courts, administrative proceedings, arbitration, and appeals, while providing strategic case management, mentoring legal staff, and contributing to the continued growth of the practice. Duties Independently manage a caseload of plaintiff-side employment law matters from intake through resolution. Represent clients in matters involving discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, retaliation, wage and hour disputes, family and medical leave, civil rights, whistleblower claims, restrictive covenants, trade secrets, and related employment litigation. Represent clients before the EEOC and other administrative agencies. Handle litigation in state and federal courts, including arbitration, trial, and appellate proceedings. Consult with clients, evaluate claims, develop litigation strategies, and manage client expectations. Conduct witness interviews, gather evidence, and oversee factual investigations. Draft pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, settlement agreements, and appellate briefs. Conduct and defend depositions. Present oral arguments, evidentiary hearings, trials, and mediations. Negotiate settlements and resolve disputes effectively. Collaborate with paralegals and legal support staff to manage case workflow. Report case status and litigation strategy to firm leadership. Participate in mentoring, business development, networking, and professional development initiatives. Travel as required for client matters and court appearances. Requirements Minimum of 5 years of employment law practice experience in a leadership role. Significant litigation experience, including at least 10 years of trial, hearing, deposition, mediation, or comparable advocacy experience. Extensive knowledge of federal and state employment laws, civil procedure, and rules of evidence. Experience handling administrative proceedings, arbitration, trial, and appellate matters. Demonstrated ability to independently manage complex litigation matters with minimal supervision. Strong negotiation, client counseling, and strategic case management skills. Proficiency with legal technology and case management systems. Willingness to travel as required. Commitment to professional ethics, collaboration, and high-quality client service. Education and Certifications Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school. Active bar admission and good standing in a U.S. jurisdiction, with the ability to satisfy applicable admission requirements for the position. Compliance with continuing legal education requirements. Skills Advanced employment litigation and trial advocacy skills. Strong legal research, writing, and appellate briefing abilities. Excellent oral advocacy and courtroom presentation skills. Superior negotiation and dispute resolution capabilities. Strategic case analysis and litigation planning. Effective client relationship management and communication. Leadership, mentoring, and team management abilities. Strong organizational and project management skills. Proficiency with legal technology and litigation support tools. Ability to manage multiple complex matters while meeting deadlines. Benefits Health insurance. Dental insurance. Vision insurance. Life insurance. Health savings account (HSA). Flexible spending account (FSA). Employee assistance program. 401(k) retirement plan. 401(k) matching. Professional development assistance. Remote work flexibility. #J-18808-Ljbffr