Associate - Litigation (Cryptocurrency Litigation & Regulatory Defense)

McDermott Will & Schulte; New York (NY); On-site; USD 235,000 - 455,000; Full time

Job summary

McDermott Will & Schulte, a leading global law firm, is seeking a crypto-focused associate for a 2nd–6th year position on the crypto team. The role involves working for crypto and blockchain clients across litigation, regulatory matters, and product disputes, with exposure to a wide range of practices.

The ideal candidate is admitted to practice, has top-tier academic credentials, exceptional writing skills, and deep knowledge of cryptocurrency and blockchain. We welcome applicants from any U.S.

Qualifications

• Must be admitted to practice in the jurisdiction where applying.
• Outstanding academic credentials from a top-tier school and strong writing skills.
• Strong knowledge of cryptocurrency and blockchain required.

Responsibilities

• Work on crypto and blockchain matters across litigation, regulatory matters, and products; gain exposure to various practice areas.

Skills

Crypto knowledge

Strong writing skills

Education

Top-tier law school credentials

Job description

Build your big career with the firm that does Big Law, Better. McDermott 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.

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 McDermott 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

Job Description

The McDermott Will & Schulte crypto team is the largest group in the world that is crypto-exclusive. Its members are required to spend 100% of their time working for crypto and blockchain clients. This job posting is for a spot on the McDermott Crypto team for a 2nd – 6th year associate. Unlike many BigLaw roles, this spot is industry-exclusive but practice group agnostic. While the team only works for crypto and blockchain clients, the crypto associates at McDermott gain hands‑on experience in a wide‑range of practices areas, including crypto litigation, crypto bankruptcy litigation, products, regulatory advice, state licensing and trust charters, and enforcement defense. McDermott’s crypto department is top ranked by Chambers, the American Lawyer, Law360, and the Legal500. It is one of only 6 firms that is ranked Band 1 by Chambers in crypto‑asset disputes. The head of the group has been a leading crypto‑law practitioner since 2013. He is one of only 8 lawyers that is Chambers ranked Band 1 in Crypto Asset Disputes. McDermott is also Chambers ranked in Fintech Legal: Payments & Lending, FinTech Legal: Blockchain & Cryptocurrencies, and FinTech Legal. McDermott’s crypto department is proud to represent the most prominent crypto companies in the world, lead cutting‑edge crypto litigation, represent the most important crypto creditors’ committees and debtors in bankruptcy, and guide start‑ups breaking into the industry. There is rarely a prominent crypto bankruptcy or litigation for which McDermott’s crypto department is not playing a key role. Similarly, McDermott has advised on most new products, prominent token launches, stablecoins, and mergers. We are looking for a crypto‑enthusiast who is ready to join one of the most fast‑paced legal teams in the world. Crypto and blockchain knowledge is required. The ideal applicant has prior relevant experience or a demonstrated interest in crypto law.

We’re open to candidates in any of our U.S. offices.

Job Requirements

• Must be admitted to practice in the jurisdiction in which you are applying.
• Must have outstanding academic credentials from a top-tier school and strong writing skills
• Strong working knowledge of cryptocurrency and blockchain is required.
• Experience in cryptocurrency‑related litigation, products, regulatory advice, or government investigations is preferred.

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 McDermott, 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

2021 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

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.