Associate Attorney - Civil Defense Litigation

A law firm seeks an experienced Associate Attorney with a background in civil defense litigation to join its Fort Lauderdale office. This role is ideal for attorneys with 3-10 years of experience handling complex litigation cases. The position involves managing a diverse caseload, including premises liability, product liability, construction defect, public entity, and civil rights cases, as well as commercial auto and trucking litigation. This opportunity offers a collaborative environment where attorneys are encouraged to leverage their experience and foster growth within a supportive team.

Duties

• Oversee case management from inception through post-trial
• Attend court conferences, oral arguments, depositions, mediations, and trials as required
• Prepare litigation documents, including pleadings, discovery responses, and motions
• Provide timely updates and reports on case status and activities
• Communicate effectively with clients, senior attorneys, and paralegals to ensure clarity on case progression
• Prioritize workload to meet various deadlines
• Fulfill billing requirements and ensure timely task completion

Requirements

• Experience: 3-10 years of litigation experience, with a focus on civil defense cases
• Skills: Strong analytical, research, writing, and communication skills; ability to prioritize and manage multiple cases
• Software: Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; knowledge of ProLaw and Acuity is a plus

Education

• Degree: Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Certifications

• Bar Admission: Active membership in the Florida State Bar; admission to federal District Courts is a plus

Skills

• Proficiency in legal drafting and documentation, including discovery responses and pleadings
• Excellent interpersonal skills to engage with clients, opposing counsel, court personnel, and team members
• Organizational abilities to manage case priorities and delegate tasks as necessary
• Detail-oriented approach with strong problem-solving capabilities

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off to support work-life balance
• Opportunities for career advancement within a rapidly growing firm
• Inclusive, team-oriented culture with direct access to mentorship and support from senior attorneys