Position Title
Associate Attorney – Litigation (Boutique Firm)
Position Summary
This opportunity is with a boutique, solo‑practitioner litigation practice that operates differently from traditional firms. The associate will work directly alongside the managing attorney, gaining meaningful exposure to every stage of litigation rather than being siloed or layered beneath multiple partners.
The practice handles a diverse litigation docket, including personal injury, probate disputes, business litigation, and construction defect matters. Due to sustained growth and an expanding caseload, the firm is hiring an associate who is ready to step into a true hands‑on role, with early responsibility and the ability to run cases with support.
This role is ideal for a litigation attorney who values practice-level learning, autonomy, and mentorship, rather than large‑firm hierarchy.
Essential Functions
Independently manage litigation matters from intake through resolution
Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and written discovery
Take and defend depositions
Prepare for and appear at hearings, mediations, and court proceedings
Develop case strategy in direct collaboration with the managing attorney
Communicate directly with clients and opposing counsel
Partner with two experienced legal assistants to manage filings and deadlines
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
Handle an active caseload with increasing ownership and discretion
Balance matters across plaintiff‑side and defense‑side litigation
Prepare filings and arguments without excessive review layers
Attend court regularly and develop courtroom confidence
Learn the business side of a boutique litigation practice
Education, Experience & Skills Required
Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
Active Texas Bar license in good standing
Approximately 3–5 years of litigation experience (flexible for the right fit)
Experience on plaintiff and/or defense side litigation
Strong legal research and excellent writing ability
Comfortable working in a lean environment with personal accountability
Can handle depositions and mediation
Preferred (not required):
Federal court admission (Eastern and Northern District of Texas, as well as Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals)
Exposure to appellate work
Demonstrated professional or community involvement
Firm Environment & Support
Solo practitioner boutique firm with direct attorney‑to‑attorney collaboration
Daily access to the managing attorney for mentorship, strategy, and feedback
Support from two dedicated, experienced legal assistants
Emphasis on quality work, professional judgment, and long‑term development
Compensation
Base salary: $140,000–$170,000 (flexible upward for strong candidates)
Discretionary Bonuses, year‑end bonus
No formal benefits package at this time
Compensation structured to account for benefits gap
Flexibility and autonomy often not found in larger firms
Schedule & Flexibility
Flexible day‑to‑day schedule typical of a boutique litigation practice
Autonomy balanced with responsibility to court deadlines and clients
Open to candidates willing to grow long‑term with the practice
Why This Role
Work directly with the decision‑maker
Gain real courtroom and case ownership experience
Avoid large‑firm bureaucracy
Build substantive litigation skills in a boutique setting