Associate – Litigation – Chicago

McDermott; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 235,000 - 455,000; Full time

Job summary

McDermott Will & Schulte in Chicago seeks a 3rd or 4th year associate to work on high-stakes disputes and to join an expanding team of trial lawyers. You will be given real responsibility early and opportunities to showcase strong writing and oral advocacy while handling complex cases.

The firm emphasizes culture, wellness, and a path to leadership within a global platform. Competitive compensation reflects experience and performance.

Qualifications

• Must be a current member of the Illinois bar.
• Strong writing and oral advocacy skills and the drive to put them to work immediately.
• Outstanding academic credentials and strong writing and oral advocacy skills.

Responsibilities

• Handle high-stakes disputes in a leading litigation team.
• Contribute to complex trials and preparation for court hearings.
• Demonstrate strong writing and advocacy skills with minimal supervision.

Skills

Strong writing

Oral advocacy

Legal research

Education

Illinois bar admission

Job description

Build your big career with the firm that does Big Law, Better. M c Dermott Will & Schulte is a leading global law firm that brings together more than 1,700+ lawyers and 1,450 business professionals. We celebrate excellence, collaboration, and community and have been recognized as a top workplace by USA Today, Fortune, The American Lawyer, Vault and others. We are also certified by Great Place to Work.

Here, we don’t just invest in your future, we accelerate your career – wherever it may lead. That includes supporting you both in and outside of the office.

With us, you’ll find:

• A firm where everyone belongs: Our award-winning culture prioritizes warmth and authenticity — we encourage you to be yourself!
• Enthusiasm for all perspectives: We’re smarter and stronger when everyone has a voice and a seat at the table. We welcome unique viewpoints and ideas, and we make opportunities for you and your career to thrive.
• Support to feel your best and do your best: Wellness is integral to building a successful career and a rich life. That’s why our M c Dermott Well program supports your physical, emotional, mental, and financial health, with an emphasis on work-life balance.
• Real rewards for real work: We offer generous compensation packages that recognize hard work and excellence.

Our Chicago Litigation team is growing, and we’re looking for a 3rd or 4th year associate who wants to be in the thick of high-stakes disputes rather than on the sidelines. You’ll join an expanding group of trial lawyers at M c Dermott Will & Schulte, an elite global firm. Here, talented associates are given real responsibility early and the chance to show what they can do.

Job Requirements:

• Must be a current member of the Illinois bar
• Must have outstanding academic credentials and strong writing and oral advocacy skills
• Strong writing and oral advocacy skills and the drive to put them to work immediately
• Current judicial clerks are encouraged to apply

As part of our ongoing commitment to be #AlwaysBetter for our people, clients and communities, we have created a culture of belonging that champions your individuality as both a person and a professional. From our competitive compensation, top benefits and award-winning professional development programs to industry-leading wellness initiatives, we support you through every stage of your life and career. With M c Dermott, you can live a life you love both in and outside of the office.

Expected Pay Range for Associates: 2026/2025 Class Compensation Years: $235,000

2024 Class Compensation Years: $245,000

2023 Class Compensation Years: $270,000

2022 Class Compensation Years: $320,000

2019 Class Compensation Years: $385,000

2020 Class Compensation Years: $410,000

2019 Class Compensation Years: $440,000

2018 and more senior class compensation years: $455,000