Associate Attorney (0-3 Years ...

State Bar of Montana; Missoula (MT); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Paid CLE and professional development

Direct mentorship from experienced t r

Job summary

Orr McDonnell Law, a litigation-focused Montana firm in Missoula, seeks an Associate Attorney with up to three years of experience to grow into skilled civil litigator. You will work directly with seasoned trial attorneys and gain courtroom and client experience from day one.

Unlike many firms, associates receive real responsibility, meaningful client interaction, and opportunities to appear in court, participate in mediations, take depositions, draft dispositive motions, and contribute to trial

Qualifications

• This role requires a Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and active Montana bar admission.
• Strong legal research and writing abilities are essential.
• Excellent verbal communication and professional presentation are required.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities are important for workflow.
• Professionalism, initiative, and sound judgment are expected.

Responsibilities

• Assist with all phases of civil litigation, from pleadings to trial preparation.
• Perform legal research, draft motions, briefs, and discovery responses.
• Take and defend depositions and represent clients at hearings.
• Participate in mediations and settlement negotiations.
• Interact with clients, staff, and other attorneys to develop case strategy.
• Collaborate with paralegals and support staff on case management.
• Support trial teams in preparation for hearings and trial.
• Contribute to bench and jury trial readiness and strategy.

Skills

Legal research

Legal writing

Verbal communication

Time management

Professionalism

Education

J.D. degree

Job description

Orr McDonnell Law, PLLC is seeking a motivated Associate Attorney to join our growing litigation practice in Missoula, Montana.

This position is ideal for a newly licensed attorney or an attorney with up to three years of experience who wants to develop into a skilled civil litigator. The successful candidate will work directly with experienced trial attorneys and will gain meaningful courtroom and client experience from day one.

Unlike many firms where young attorneys spend years performing only research and document review, our associates are entrusted with real responsibility, meaningful client interaction, and substantial opportunities to appear in court, attend mediations, take depositions, draft dispositive motions, and participate in trial preparation.

We are committed to developing exceptional attorneys and provide mentorship, training, and support while encouraging independence and professional growth.

What You'll Do

You will assist with all phases of civil litigation, including:

• Legal research and analysis
• Drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, and discovery
• Taking and defending depositions
• Representing clients at hearings and court appearances
• Participating in mediations and settlement negotiations
• Client meetings and communications
• Case strategy development
• Trial and arbitration preparation
• Working collaboratively with attorneys, paralegals, and staff

Qualifications Required

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
• Active license to practice law in Montana
• Strong legal research and writing skills
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities
• Professionalism, initiative, and sound judgment

What We Offer

• Top-tier compensation within the Missoula legal market
• Performance-based bonuses
• Health insurance
• Retirement benefits
• Paid CLE and professional development opportunities
• Direct mentorship from experienced trial attorneys
• Meaningful courtroom and litigation experience
• A collaborative and supportive work environment
• Long-term growth and advancement opportunities

Compensation is competitive and will be based upon experience, qualifications, and demonstrated ability.

About Orr McDonnell Law

Orr McDonnell Law is a litigation-focused Montana law firm representing individuals, businesses, property owners, professionals, and families in a wide range of civil matters. We pride ourselves on practical advocacy, strong client relationships, and achieving results through thoughtful strategy, effective negotiation, and courtroom excellence.