Associate Attorney

Kirkland Hochstetler PLLC; Estero (FL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Kirkland Hochstetler PLLC seeks an Associate Attorney to work full time on-site in Estero, FL, handling labor and employment matters. Responsibilities include legal research, drafting contracts and memos, and giving well-reasoned advice under senior attorney supervision.

The role requires JD, Florida bar admission or eligibility, strong communication, and ability to manage multiple matters with attention to deadlines.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school and active Florida bar admission or eligibility for prompt admission.
• Experience or coursework in Labor and Employment Law; advising on workplace policies and compliance.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with precise drafting and client interaction.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research and draft contracts, memoranda, pleadings, and other documents under supervision.
• Provide well-reasoned legal advice aligned with client objectives and risk tolerance.
• Negotiate on behalf of clients and participate in client meetings.
• Assist with case strategy, preparation for hearings, mediations, and other proceedings.
• Manage assigned case files, track deadlines, and maintain thorough documentation.

Skills

Labor Law

Legal Research

Negotiation

Written Communication

Client Counseling

Team Collaboration

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Tools

Legal Research Databases

Job description

Company Description

Kirkland Hochstetler PLLC is a law firm committed to delivering practical, business-focused legal solutions to clients across a range of industries. The firm emphasizes collaborative work, professional integrity, and strong client relationships. Team members are encouraged to take ownership of their matters, develop specialized expertise, and contribute to a supportive, collegial environment. The firm values clear communication, effective advocacy, and consistent, high-quality service to clients. Joining Kirkland Hochstetler PLLC offers opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and meaningful responsibility early in one’s career.

Role Description

The Associate Attorney will work full time on-site in Estero, FL, supporting clients with a variety of legal matters, including labor and employment issues. Day-to-day responsibilities include conducting legal research, drafting and reviewing contracts, memoranda, pleadings, and other documents, and providing well-reasoned legal advice under the supervision of senior attorneys. The role involves negotiating on behalf of clients, participating in client meetings, and assisting with case strategy and preparation for hearings, mediations, and other proceedings. The Associate Attorney will collaborate closely with partners and colleagues, manage assigned case files, track deadlines, and maintain accurate documentation. The position requires strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate clearly with clients and internal stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in Law, with the ability to analyze statutes, regulations, and case law and apply them to client matters.
• Experience or coursework in Labor and Employment Law, with interest in counseling clients on workplace policies and compliance.
• Ability to provide clear, practical Legal Advice that aligns with client objectives and risk tolerance.
• Proficient in legal Research, including use of legal databases and secondary sources to support written work and case strategy.
• Effective Negotiation skills, with the capacity to advocate for client interests in discussions, settlements, and agreements.
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and active bar admission in Florida, or eligibility for prompt admission.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including precise drafting and professional client interaction.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple matters, meet deadlines, and work both independently and in teams.
• Commitment to ethical practice, professional development, and maintaining confidentiality and client trust.
• Prior law firm experience, clerkships, or internships in relevant practice areas are beneficial but not mandatory.