Litigation Associate

Buchanan; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 220,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health coverage

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Job summary

Buchanan is seeking a Litigation Associate to join its complex litigation practice in Minneapolis. The successful candidate will handle high-stakes matters across multiple industries, including state and federal courts and arbitration.

Ideal for a 3–6 year associate eager to assume meaningful responsibility in sophisticated litigation while growing advocacy and case-management skills. Two-stage interview process with mentorship and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• 3–5 years of litigation experience at a regional, national, or well-regarded local law firm.
• Strong oral advocacy, writing, and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Represent clients in complex civil litigation, including trials, appeals, and arbitration.
• Draft and review pleadings, motions, and legal briefs.
• Take and defend depositions and handle discovery matters.
• Serve as the primary lawyer or lead communicator on client matters, providing hands-on responsibility.
• Participate in pro bono opportunities and contribute to community-focused legal work.
• Collaborate with partners and colleagues on case strategy and client counseling.

Skills

Oral advocacy

Writing

Analytical skills

Education

J.D. from accredited law school

Job description

Overview

A leading national law firm is seeking a Litigation Associate to join its complex litigation practice in Minneapolis. The successful candidate will work on a wide range of high-stakes litigation matters across multiple industries, including cases in state and federal courts as well as arbitration proceedings.

This opportunity is particularly well suited to a 3–6 year associate looking to take on meaningful responsibility in sophisticated litigation matters while developing their advocacy and case management skills within a collaborative and highly regarded litigation team.

What You’ll Do

• Represent clients in complex civil litigation matters, including trials, appeals, and arbitration.
• Draft and review pleadings, motions, and legal briefs.
• Take and defend depositions and handle discovery matters.
• Serve as the primary lawyer or lead communicator on client matters, providing hands-on responsibility.
• Participate in pro bono opportunities and contribute to community-focused legal work.
• Collaborate with partners and colleagues on case strategy and client counseling.

About You

• J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials.
• 3–5 years of litigation experience at a regional, national, or well-regarded local law firm.
• Strong oral advocacy, writing, and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated passion for litigation with a desire to take on trial responsibilities and client interaction.
• Experience in pre-trial and trial practice, including pleadings, motions, and depositions, is preferred.
• Proven record of achievement, leadership, and professional involvement.
• Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively.

Why Apply?

• Base salary range: $220,000 – $240,000 depending on experience.
• Performance-based bonus may be available.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Opportunity to gain hands-on litigation and trial experience early in your career.
• Exposure to high-stakes civil litigation matters nationwide.
• Collaborative environment with significant mentorship and professional development opportunities.
• Opportunity to engage in pro bono work and community service.

The Process

• Two-stage interview process.

Ready to take the next step?