Commercial Trials & Litigation Associate Atttorney

Job Description

Job Description

Houston, Texas

Direct Counsel is seeking a Commercial Trials & Litigation Associate to join the Houston office of a nationally recognized Am Law firm. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with 2–4 years of experience handling sophisticated commercial disputes who is interested in developing as a trial lawyer while working on high-stakes litigation matters.

The ideal candidate will have experience managing complex commercial litigation, exceptional writing and analytical skills, and a desire to take on meaningful responsibility. This role offers significant client contact, hands-on litigation experience, and meaningful exposure to trial strategy and courtroom advocacy.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in complex commercial litigation and trial matters
• Assist with all phases of litigation, from case inception through trial and appeal
• Draft pleadings, dispositive motions, briefs, and other substantive legal filings
• Conduct legal research and prepare case strategy memoranda
• Manage written discovery, document review, depositions, and expert discovery
• Participate in witness preparation, trial preparation, and courtroom proceedings
• Assist with arbitrations, evidentiary hearings, mediations, and trials
• Communicate directly with clients, opposing counsel, experts, and courts
• Work closely with partners and trial teams on sophisticated, high-profile disputes

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Active California Bar membership in good standing
• 2–4 years of commercial litigation experience
• Experience handling complex business or commercial disputes
• Exceptional legal research, writing, and analytical skills
• Strong academic credentials
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple matters and deadlines effectively

Preferred Qualifications

• Judicial clerkship experience
• Experience drafting substantive motions and briefs
• Deposition and discovery experience
• Prior trial, arbitration, or evidentiary hearing experience

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $235,000 – $310,000
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) and profit-sharing plans
• Generous paid time off
• Wellness and employee assistance programs
• Professional development and mentorship opportunities

Why This Opportunity

• Work alongside nationally recognized trial lawyers on sophisticated commercial disputes
• Gain meaningful exposure to trial strategy, courtroom advocacy, and case management
• Receive substantial responsibility and direct client contact early in your career
• Benefit from a collaborative culture focused on mentorship and professional development
• Build a strong foundation for long-term success as a commercial litigator and trial attorney

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.