Associate

Higgins Cavanagh & Cooney, LLP; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Higgins Cavanagh & Cooney, LLP, a Rhode Island–based litigation firm, seeks an Associate to work on-site in Providence. You will draft pleadings, motions and memoranda, conduct legal research, and help shape case strategy under senior attorneys.

The role involves discovery, document review, deposition support, and potential court appearances. The Associate will manage a caseload, meet deadlines, coordinate with clients and opposing counsel, and assist with trial preparation and exhibits.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school and RI Bar admission or eligibility for prompt admission.
• Strong research and writing skills for pleadings, motions and memoranda.
• Solid analytical and critical thinking with ability to develop strategies.
• Excellent communication and time-management for multiple matters.

Responsibilities

• Draft pleadings, motions and legal memoranda with supervision from senior attorneys.
• Conduct legal research and assist with case strategy and discovery.
• Participate in discovery including document review and deposition support.
• Communicate with clients, opposing counsel and courts; organize exhibits and filings.
• Assist with trial preparation, including witness materials and pre-trial filings.
• Manage caseload, meet deadlines and maintain confidential files per firm policy.

Skills

Legal research

Legal writing

Case analysis

Discovery practice

Deposition prep

Time management

Communication

Organization

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) and RI Bar admission or eligible for prompt admission

Tools

Litigation software

Document management systems

Office technologies

Job description

Company Description

Higgins Cavanagh & Cooney, LLP is a litigation firm that has delivered practical, cost-effective legal solutions to clients for over 70 years. Licensed in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, the firm combines deep regional knowledge with broad litigation experience across multiple jurisdictions. Founded in 1951 by three former presidents of the Rhode Island Bar Association, HCC has built a long-standing reputation as one of the most respected litigation firms in Rhode Island. As one of the largest firms in the state, HCC offers comprehensive legal services supported by robust resources and modern technology. The firm is committed to high-quality advocacy for sophisticated clients in a competitive market.

Role Description

The Associate will work full time on-site at the firm’s office in Providence, RI. Day-to-day responsibilities include drafting pleadings, motions, and legal memoranda, conducting legal research, and assisting with case strategy under the supervision of senior attorneys. The Associate will participate in discovery, including document review, preparation of written discovery, and deposition support, as well as communication with clients, opposing counsel, and courts. The role may involve court appearances, hearings, and trial preparation, including organizing exhibits, witness materials, and pre-trial filings. The Associate is expected to manage a caseload, meet deadlines, collaborate with colleagues, and maintain accurate, confidential case files in accordance with firm policies and professional standards.

Qualifications

• Strong legal research and writing skills, including the ability to draft clear, well-supported pleadings, motions, and legal memoranda.
• Demonstrated litigation skills such as case analysis, discovery practice, deposition preparation, and familiarity with courtroom procedures.
• Solid analytical and critical thinking abilities to evaluate facts, identify legal issues, and develop strategic recommendations.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for working with clients, colleagues, opposing counsel, and court personnel.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, including managing multiple matters and meeting strict deadlines.
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and admission (or eligibility for prompt admission) to the Rhode Island Bar; admission in Massachusetts and/or Connecticut is a plus.
• Professional ethics, sound judgment, and commitment to client service and confidentiality.
• Experience with litigation software, document management systems, and standard office technologies is beneficial.
• Prior experience in civil litigation or insurance defense is preferred but not required; a strong interest in trial practice is advantageous.