Litigation Associate

Litigation AssociateWe are a full service law firm advising businesses, developers, healthcare organizations, and individuals on complex transactions and high stakes disputes. Leading legal publications have named us litigation department of the year and real estate firm of the year while national guides rank us across ten practice areas. Our collaborative culture pairs seasoned partners with rising talent so every matter benefits from deep experience and fresh thinking. Joining us means meaningful work for respected clients along with the mentorship and visibility a rewarding legal career deserves.Position OverviewWe are seeking a Litigation Associate to join our commercial litigation team. The successful candidate will manage and advance complex civil disputes from inception through trial, including breach of contract, business torts, shareholder disputes, unfair competition, trade secret matters, construction litigation, and real estate and lease disputes. This role requires strong trial and motion practice skills, excellent client communication, and the ability to collaborate with partners and support staff to deliver strategic, results-oriented representation.Key ResponsibilitiesManage a docket of commercial litigation matters across all stages: pleadings, discovery, motions practice, settlement negotiations, and trial preparation.Draft and file complaints, answers, motions, briefs, discovery requests and responses, witness statements, and pre-trial submissions with precision and adherence to court rules and deadlines.Conduct factual and legal research using Lexis/Westlaw, synthesize results, and prepare memoranda and strategy recommendations for partners and clients.Take and defend depositions, prepare witnesses for testimony, and represent clients at hearings, mediations, and trials.Lead and supervise e-discovery, document review, and production protocols; work with vendors and litigation support to manage data and review platforms.Counsel clients on litigation strategy, case status, risk assessment, and settlement options; draft client-facing correspondence and case updates.Assist with related transactional matters including real estate transactions, lease negotiations, and contract drafting and interpretation when litigation intersects with transactional issues.Develop case theories and trial strategies in coordination with partners; prepare exhibits, witness outlines, and demonstratives for hearings and trials.Mentor and supervise junior associates and paralegals, delegating tasks and reviewing work product to ensure quality and efficiency.Maintain accurate timekeeping and billing records, support business development efforts, and participate in firm- and practice-area initiatives.QualificationsJuris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and admission to the NJ state bar (active license required).3+ years of litigation experience at a law firm with demonstrable work on commercial litigation matters (construction litigation a plus)Trial and courtroom experience preferred; experience preparing for and participating in trials, hearings, and depositions is strongly desired.Proven experience handling real estate matters and leases in the context of litigation or transactional support is a plus.Excellent legal writing and oral advocacy skills, with a strong record of drafting persuasive motions, briefs, and client communications.BenefitsComprehensive benefitsMedical/Dental/VisionParental leaveLife insurance401k + profit sharing plansCommuter savings programsFSAShort- and long-term disability insuranceGenerous PTO program...and more!