Appeals and Complex Motions Associate Attorney

Wilson Elser; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work option

Comprehensive benefits

401(k) match

Paid time off

Job summary

Wilson Elser is seeking a talented Appeals and Complex Motions Associate Attorney to join our NYC office. The role focuses on a broad range of appellate matters, offering growth opportunities within the appellate practice and exposure to complex tasks as experience builds.

Ideal candidates will have 1–3 years in defense litigation, civil litigation background, and outstanding legal writing. The position offers hybrid flexibility and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school.
• Admitted to practice in New York; NJ bar admission a plus.
• 1–3 years of defense litigation experience.
• Civil litigation background preferred, with appellate experience highly desirable.
• Exceptional legal writing skills and strong analytical abilities.

Responsibilities

• Handle the full spectrum of appellate cases from start to finish.
• Draft appellate motions and applications, including motions to dismiss and extensions.
• Negotiate stipulations on briefing schedules and appellate records content.
• Conduct ad hoc legal research to assist trial teams with ongoing litigation.
• Provide motion support to trial teams, including MILs, SJ motions, and post‑trial motions.

Skills

Legal writing

Analytical thinking

Research skills

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

Appeals and Complex Motions Associate Attorney

New York, New York

At Wilson Elser , we are redefining what it means to work at a national law firm. With more than 1,400 attorneys across 46 offices nationwide, we are recognized among the top 100 law firms by The American Lawyer and ranked #30 in the National Law Journal’s survey of the nation’s largest law firms.

Our continued success is built on a culture of collaboration, innovation, client service, and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering an environment where attorneys are empowered to grow their careers, contribute meaningfully, and thrive professionally.

Our firm is committed to attracting and retaining professionals who value each other and the service we provide by embracing Teamwork, Collaboration, Client Service, and Innovation. If you are a motivated professional looking for a long‑term fit where you can grow in a role, and will be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply to our Appeals and Complex Motions Associate Attorney position in our NYC Office.

This position offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement.

The Position

Wilson Elser is seeking a talented and motivated Appeals and Complex Motions Associate Attorney to join our dynamic legal team. This position offers the opportunity to work on a wide range of appellate matters, providing the chance to grow within the appellate practice and eventually take on more complex tasks as experience builds.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle the full spectrum of appellate cases, from start to finish.
• Draft appellate motions and applications, including but not limited to motions to dismiss and for extension requests.
• Negotiate stipulations with other parties relating to appellate issues such as briefing schedules and the content of appellate records.
• Conduct ad hoc legal research for the firm’s various trial teams, assisting with ongoing litigation.
• Provide motion assistance to trial teams, including motions in limine (MILs), summary judgment motions (SJ) of varying complexity, and post-trial motions.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school
• Admitted to practice in New York, NJ bar admission a plus.
• 1-3 years of defense litigation experience.
• Civil litigation background preferred, with appellate experience being highly desirable.
• Exceptional legal writing skills required.
• Strong analytical and research abilities.

Wilson Elser offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our attorneys both professionally and personally.

A variety of factors are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, education, licensure and/or certifications, geographic location, market demands, other business and organizational needs, and other factors permitted by law. This position is also eligible for discretionary bonuses. Final salary wages offered may be outside of this range based on other reasons and individual circumstances. This position is considered full‑time and therefore qualifies for benefits including 401(k) retirement savings plan, medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

Salary Range:

$130,000 - $150,000 USD

Why Join Wilson Elser?

• Meaningful Work: Handle sophisticated matters alongside experienced attorneys and partners
• Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive team environment that values mentorship and professional development
• Advancement: Gain opportunities for long‑term growth within a nationally recognized firm
• Hybrid Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible hybrid work arrangement that supports work‑life balance
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, generous PTO, 401(k) match, and robust medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
• Additional Perks: Access to corporate discount programs and employee benefits

Wilson Elser is committed to a collegial work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. It is the Firm's policy that employment will be based on merit, qualifications, and competence. Further, employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicants race, color, age, sex, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, physical or mental disability, status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking, past or present service in the uniformed services or application or obligation to serve in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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