Associate Attorney

Our small but impactful law firm is seeking a highly motivated Associate Attorney with 0-3 years of experience to join our team. The ideal candidate will have excellent legal writing and research ability that has been demonstrated through appellate work. The candidate will be expected to begin researching and writing appellate briefs immediately and to progress to other opportunities such as depositions and trials. This is a unique opportunity for a candidate who is eager to gain valuable training and experience in courtroom advocacy and appellate practice. The Associate Attorney position will work closely with more experienced lawyers to handle complex legal matters and represent our clients in primarily in the Appellate Court of Illinois and the Circuit Court of Cook County. Appellate work will principally involve civil commitment appeals on behalf of the committed person stemming from cases under the Sexually Violent Persons Commitment Act, 725 ILCS 207/1 et seq.

Please submit resume and writing sample. Writing sample must be an original work (authored solely or primarily by you) that reflects legal analysis and reasoning, such as a legal memo or appellate brief excerpt.

Responsibilities

• Researching and writing appellate briefs
• Participation in appellate court oral arguments
• Conduct direct and cross examinations of witnesses
• Conduct legal research, analyze case law, and provide legal advice to clients
• Draft legal pleadings, motions, and other court documents
• Collaborate internally to develop legal strategy and prepare for trial and appellate hearings
• Work independently on assigned tasks and projects, while meeting deadlines
• Maintain accurate and organized case files and documents
• Stay updated with changes in laws, regulations, and legal trends that may impact the firm and its clients

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in the State of Illinois or have passed the bar and will be licensed in November.
• 0-3 years of experience in criminal or civil appellate practice.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Strong legal writing and research skills, with attention to detail.
• Professional and ethical conduct.

Benefits

• Salary will be commensurate with experience
• Health insurance, dental insurance, and retirement plan with match
• Opportunity to gain invaluable experience in trial and appeals
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Remote/hybrid work schedule, providing flexibility
• Opportunity for growth and advancement within the firm
• Access to resources and training to enhance professional development

The Law Office of Michael R. Johnson LLC (“The Firm”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. The Firm is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at The Firm are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national original, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender orientation, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. The Firm will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.