Associate Attorney, Employment (Chicago)

About us:

IFMK Law is not just a legal firm; we're a community built on the foundation of understanding, collaboration, and inclusivity. Since our inception in 1990, we've been dedicated to providing exceptional legal services

Work-life balance and a supportive work culture are paramount to us. We understand the importance of maintaining equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal well-being. Our aim is to provide an environment where our attorneys can perform at their best, knowing they have the support they need both inside and outside the office.

Job Description:

As a Litigation Associate Attorney, you will be an integral part of our dedicated legal team, representing governmental entities in federal and state courts as well as before state and federal agencies with a primary focus on employment, civil rights, and school law. Your responsibility will be to provide expert legal counsel, handle litigation, and advocate on behalf of our clients. The ideal candidate will also have litigation experience, including taking and defending depositions and drafting and arguing substantive motions.

This position is based in our Northbrook, Illinois office. As an integral part of our team, you will have the opportunity to:

• Represent Illinois governmental entities in federal and state courts and administrative agencies in employment, civil rights, and school law matters including claims involving Title VII, Title IX, the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, Age Discrimination in Employment Act, Section 1983, the Illinois Human Rights Act, Illinois Freedom of Information Act, Illinois Open Meetings Act, Illinois Governmental and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act, the Illinois School Code, and other issues involving governmental entities.
• Conduct legal research, analysis, and case strategy development.
• Draft and file motions and pleadings, argue substantive motions, propound and answer written discovery, and take and defend depositions.
• Prepare and assist in trial proceedings.
• Collaborate with senior attorneys and clients to develop litigation strategies.
• Counsel clients on legal issues related to potential claims.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records and documentation.
• Engage in settlement negotiations when appropriate.
• Conduct training classes for clients and prospective clients.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• A valid Illinois law license in good standing.
• 5+ years of litigation experience with a focus on employment, civil rights, and/or school law. Trial experience is a plus.
• Strong legal research and writing skills.
• Excellent oral communication/public speaking skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Self-starter and ability to work in a fast-paced, occasionally stressful environment.
• The ability to multitask effectively while meeting deadlines.
• Strong time management abilities, with a proven track record of meeting deadlines.
• Willingness to travel within the state of Illinois as required.

Job Type: Full-time

Job Location:

• Northbrook, Illinois: Must be willing to relocate before starting work (Required)
• In-office

Salary and Benefits:

We offer a competitive starting salary range of $125,000 - $175,000 commensurate with experience, licensures, and other considerations. Additionally, we provide the following comprehensive benefits package:

• 401(k); 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off