Senior Litigation Counsel (Principal Level)

Senior Litigation Attorney / Counsel (Partner-Minded Role)Location: Baltimore, MD (Downtown)Experience Level: 13+ YearsIdeal Bar Admissions: Maryland, Washington, DC and/or Virginia strongly preferredOnsite initially with movement to hybrid (3 days) as relationships and communications build. The OpportunityA highly regarded boutique law firm is seeking a Senior Litigation Attorney / Counsel to step into a lead role managing an established, active book of business. This is a rare opportunity for a seasoned litigator to operate with partner-level ownership, autonomy, and visibility—without the immediate pressure to originate work.You will serve as the primary driver of litigation strategy, client relationships, and matter execution, working closely with firm leadership while leveraging support from a junior attorney. This role is designed for an attorney who is highly self-directed, organized, and relationship-oriented, and ready to take on a central leadership role in a lean, high-performing environment.Why This Role Stands OutStep into an Existing Book – Immediate access to a steady pipeline of meaningful workOperate Like a Partner (Day One) – Own strategy, client relationships, and outcomesNo Portable Business Required – Focus on delivering excellent work, not chasing originationsHigh Autonomy, Low Bureaucracy – A streamlined environment where execution mattersDirect Client Impact – Be the face of the relationship, not several layers removedPlatform for Leadership – Ideal for attorneys ready to transition into a true partner-level roleWork Alongside a Founder in a Tight-Knit Team – Collaborate directly with firm leadership in a small, highly engaged team, where your voice is heard and your contributions shape both client outcomes and firm directionPractice FocusThe firm’s litigation work is primarily centered on:Construction and development-related disputesRepresentation of developers, contractors, and project stakeholdersMatters involving commercial, residential, and municipal projectsAdditional exposure includes:Commercial disputes and business advisoryReal estate and development-related transactionsFinancing and loan-related matters tied to projectsKey ResponsibilitiesLead an active portfolio of litigation matters, managing cases from inception through resolutionDevelop and execute litigation strategy, including pleadings, discovery, depositions, and trial preparationServe as the primary client contact, building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationshipsOversee and delegate work to a supporting attorney, ensuring organization, efficiency, and qualityMaintain strong matter management discipline, including deadlines, priorities, and workflowProvide clear, strategic communication to clients, opposing counsel, and internal stakeholdersCollaborate with firm leadership on case strategy and broader client objectivesCore Success Traits:Self-Motivated: Thrives in an autonomous environment with ownership over outcomesHighly Organized: Able to manage multiple active matters with precision and accountabilityRelationship-Driven: Builds trust with clients and becomes a go-to advisorStrong Communicator: Clear, concise, and confident in both written and verbal advocacyTechnically Strong: Deep grounding in construction litigation and related legal frameworksDemonstrated ability to independently manage complex matters and client relationshipsExperience working in lean teams with limited leverageIdeal CandidateThis role is best suited for a senior attorney who:Is a Senior Associate or Counsel in Big Law ready for a more meaningful, leadership-oriented roleAlready operates with a partner mindset, but lacks (or does not want to rely on) a portable bookWants to own client relationships and outcomes, not just execute discrete tasksIs energized by a hands-on, entrepreneurial environmentValues impact, autonomy, and accountability over hierarchy and internal structure