Litigation Associate

Commercial Litigation Associate

Am Law 200 firm seeking a Litigation Associate to join the commercial litigation team!

We are an Am Law 200 law firm with more than 200 attorneys serving clients across the Mid-Atlantic and beyond. Combining sophisticated legal counsel with practical business judgment, we help organizations navigate complex challenges, drive growth, and create lasting value. Our collaborative, entrepreneurial culture promotes innovation, professional development, and a commitment to excellence, making us a place where talented professionals can build rewarding and impactful careers.

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Litigation Associate to join our litigation team handling complex commercial disputes in state and federal courts. The ideal candidate will manage all phases of litigation including motion practice, discovery, trial preparation, and appellate matters, with experience in business and government contracts litigation preferred. This role offers courtroom exposure, client contact, and opportunities to work closely with partners on high-stakes matters.

Compensation + Benefits:

• Competitive compensation (DOE): $200k-275k
• Medical/Dental/Vision
• Paid time off
• 401k with company match
• Short- and long-term disability coverage
• Paid parental leave
• Commuter benefits
• Life insurance
• Firm-paid bar association fees
• ...and more!

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse caseload of commercial and government-contracts disputes in state and federal courts from inception through trial and appeal.
• Draft and file pleadings, motions, responses, briefs, case status reports, and other substantive court filings with precision and timeliness.
• Conduct fact investigation and comprehensive legal research to develop litigation strategy and prepare persuasive legal arguments.
• Plan and execute discovery, including drafting requests, responding to discovery, reviewing documents, and managing e-discovery and privilege issues.
• Prepare witnesses, take and defend depositions, and coordinate with experts and consultants.
• Appear in court for hearings, conferences, and trials; represent clients in state and federal court proceedings and administrative hearings.
• Develop appellate briefs and records and handle appeals under the guidance of senior counsel.
• Maintain regular and clear communication with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel; manage client expectations and case budgets.
• Collaborate with partners and colleagues to develop case strategy, mentor junior associates and summer clerks, and contribute to team knowledge sharing.
• Participate in business development initiatives, including preparing pitch materials, proposals, and contributing to thought leadership and client outreach.
• Maintain accurate dockets, billing records, case files, and adherence to firm policies and litigation deadlines.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active admission to the Virginia state bar
• 2+ years of commercial litigation experience as an associate in a law firm
• Experience handling matters in both state and federal court, including motion practice and courtroom appearances.
• Clerkship experience (state, federal, or appellate) or appellate practice experience is highly valued.
• Strong legal research, analysis, and writing skills with a track record of persuasive brief writing.
• Demonstrated courtroom skills, including deposition experience and trial preparation; ability to argue motions and manage hearings.
• Excellent client-service orientation, interpersonal communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team.
• Proven ability to manage multiple matters and deadlines, prioritize tasks, and produce high-quality work under pressure.
• Business acumen and the ability to understand clients commercial objectives and tailor litigation strategies accordingly.
• Willingness to travel as required and participate in client meetings and court appearances outside the office.