Litigation Attorney

Position Overview

The Law Offices of Houston M. Smith, P.C., a small personal injury law firm in Terrell, Texas, is seeking a motivated Associate Attorney to join our team. Our firm represents individuals and families in cases involving automobile and commercial truck accidents, premises liability, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and other serious personal injury matters.

The ideal candidate will be dependable, organized, compassionate with clients, and capable of handling cases with appropriate supervision. This position offers meaningful client contact, hands-on litigation experience, and the opportunity to take an active role in cases from intake through resolution.

Responsibilities

* Manage a caseload of personal injury matters from initial investigation through settlement or litigation.
* Communicate regularly with clients and provide clear case updates.
* Review medical records, accident reports, insurance policies, and other evidence.
* Identify legal issues and evaluate liability and damages.
* Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, demand letters, settlement documents, and legal correspondence.
* Conduct and defend depositions.
* Attend hearings, mediations, court conferences, and trials.
* Negotiate claims with insurance adjusters and opposing counsel.
* Work closely with paralegals, legal assistants, medical providers, experts, and other professionals.
* Maintain accurate case notes, calendars, deadlines, and electronic files.
* Perform legal research and remain current on developments in Texas personal injury law.
* Assist with other legal matters and firm responsibilities as needed.

Qualifications

* Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.
* Active license to practice law in Texas and good standing with the State Bar of Texas.
* Strong legal research, writing, negotiation, and oral advocacy skills.
* Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
* Professional and compassionate communication with clients.
* Ability to manage multiple cases and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
* Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative small-firm team.
* Personal injury or civil litigation experience is preferred, but qualified newer attorneys are encouraged to apply.
* Trial, deposition, and courtroom experience is a plus.
* Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus but not required.

Why Join Our Firm?

* Hands-on experience with meaningful personal injury cases.
* Direct involvement in case strategy, negotiations, and litigation.
* Substantial client contact and courtroom opportunities.
* Collaborative environment within a small, established law firm.
* Opportunity for professional development and increased responsibility

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:
* 401(k)
* 401(k) matching
* Paid time off

Application Question(s):
* Are you able to negotiate a claims settlement in Pre-litigation or Litigation?

Education:
* Doctorate (Required)

Experience:
* Personal injury law: 2 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:
* Juris Doctrate (Required)

Work Location: In person