Commercial Litigation Associate — Hands-on Trial Work

Swan Legal Search; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Swan Legal Search in San Francisco is seeking a 2-4 year associate for its commercial litigation practice. The firm targets hands-on responsibility with a 1650-hour annual expectation and offers sophisticated work on small teams, with significant client contact and mentoring.

The practice emphasizes complex commercial litigation and trade secret disputes. Associates are expected to develop as well-rounded litigators, take meaningful responsibility early, and contribute to case and trial strategy

Qualifications

• J.D. from a Top 20 US-based law school.
• 2–4 years of commercial litigation experience at AmLaw 200 firm or top litigation boutique.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Experience with complex commercial litigation; trade secret litigation helpful.

Responsibilities

• Taking and defending depositions.
• Arguing motions and appearing in court.
• Preparing and working directly with witnesses.
• Helping develop case and trial strategy.
• Drafting motions, briefs, pleadings, and other litigation materials.
• Managing discovery and other aspects of cases.
• Working directly with partners and clients.
• Preparing matters for trial.

Skills

Legal research

Oral advocacy

Drafting motions

Trial experience

Depositions

Client communication

Education

J.D. from a Top 20 US law school

Job description

Swan Legal Search in San Francisco is seeking a 2-4 year associate for its commercial litigation practice. The firm targets hands-on responsibility with a 1650-hour annual expectation and offers sophisticated work on small teams, with significant client contact and mentoring.

The practice emphasizes complex commercial litigation and trade secret disputes. Associates are expected to develop as well-rounded litigators, take meaningful responsibility early, and contribute to case and trial strategy