Associate Attorney

Position TitleAssociate Attorney – Litigation (Boutique Firm)Position SummaryThis 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 FunctionsIndependently manage litigation matters from intake through resolutionDraft pleadings, motions, briefs, and written discoveryTake and defend depositionsPrepare for and appear at hearings, mediations, and court proceedingsDevelop case strategy in direct collaboration with the managing attorneyCommunicate directly with clients and opposing counselPartner with two experienced legal assistants to manage filings and deadlinesDay-to-Day ResponsibilitiesHandle an active caseload with increasing ownership and discretionBalance matters across plaintiff‑side and defense‑side litigationPrepare filings and arguments without excessive review layersAttend court regularly and develop courtroom confidenceLearn the business side of a boutique litigation practiceEducation, Experience & Skills RequiredJuris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law schoolActive Texas Bar license in good standingApproximately 3–5 years of litigation experience (flexible for the right fit)Experience on plaintiff and/or defense side litigationStrong legal research and excellent writing abilityComfortable working in a lean environment with personal accountabilityCan handle depositions and mediationPreferred (not required):Federal court admission (Eastern and Northern District of Texas, as well as Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals)Exposure to appellate workDemonstrated professional or community involvementFirm Environment & SupportSolo practitioner boutique firm with direct attorney‑to‑attorney collaborationDaily access to the managing attorney for mentorship, strategy, and feedbackSupport from two dedicated, experienced legal assistantsEmphasis on quality work, professional judgment, and long‑term developmentCompensationBase salary: $140,000–$170,000 (flexible upward for strong candidates)Discretionary Bonuses, year‑end bonusNo formal benefits package at this timeCompensation structured to account for benefits gapFlexibility and autonomy often not found in larger firmsSchedule & FlexibilityFlexible day‑to‑day schedule typical of a boutique litigation practiceAutonomy balanced with responsibility to court deadlines and clientsOpen to candidates willing to grow long‑term with the practiceWhy This RoleWork directly with the decision‑makerGain real courtroom and case ownership experienceAvoid large‑firm bureaucracyBuild substantive litigation skills in a boutique setting