Associate – Litigation (Supreme Court & Appellate) – Washington, D.C.

McDermott Will & Schulte; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 235,000 - 455,000; Full time

Job summary

McDermott Will & Schulte in Washington, DC, seeks a 2nd–4th year Associate for our Supreme Court and Appellate team within the Litigation Practice Group. Applicants should have appellate experience, with a preference for prior clerkship and strong writing skills. DC bar eligibility or waiver is required.

Questions may be directed to Amanda Ryan, Talent Acquisition Manager, at [e-mail]. We offer a collaborative culture with top-tier compensation and a focus on professional

Qualifications

• Appellate litigation experience required
• Clerkship experience encouraged
• Excellent writing and analytical skills
• DC Bar eligibility or waiver preferred

Responsibilities

• Assist in Supreme Court and appellate matters for the team
• Develop and manage litigation strategy and briefs
• Collaborate with partners, associates, and staff on case work
• Support research and argument development for high-stakes issues

Skills

Appellate litigation

Strong writing skills

Education

DC Bar admission or waive-in

Top-tier law school

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.

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 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 Washington, D.C. office is seeking a 2nd – 4th year Associate for our Supreme Court and Appellate team in our Litigation Practice Group. Must have appellate experience, and significant experience with the Administrative Procedure Act is preferred. Questions can be directed to Amanda Ryan, Talent Acquisition Manager, Associates, at [e-mail]

Job Requirements

• Must be a current member of the DC bar or eligible for waive-in
• Must have outstanding academic credentials from a top-tier school and strong writing skills
• Appellate litigation experience required, with a preference for past appellate clerkship experience
• 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 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