Litigation Associate (Sarasota, FL)

McPhail Sanchez, LLC; Sarasota (FL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP in Sarasota, Florida, is seeking an exceptional associate for its litigation practice. Ideal candidates have 2+ years of defense commercial litigation experience in state and federal courts, strong research and writing skills, and a commitment to client service.

Candidates must have Florida litigation experience and be admitted to the Florida Bar. Government or judicial clerkship experience is encouraged. A hybrid arrangement is available case-by-case.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with the Florida Bar.
• Minimum 1–3 years of commercial litigation experience in local/state court.
• Strong research and writing abilities with client-service focus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research and develop case strategy for commercial disputes.
• Collaborate with partners, associates, and support staff on case strategy and litigation management.
• Draft pleadings, discovery, and legal memoranda.
• Attend and participate in court hearings, depositions, and trials.
• Maintain positive client relationships and provide updates on case developments.
• Manage caseload efficiently while meeting litigation deadlines and billable requirements.

Skills

Legal research

Legal writing

Case strategy

Time management

Teamwork

Education

Juris Doctor degree

Job description

The Sarasota, Florida office of Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP has an opportunity for an exceptional associate to join its litigation practice. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 2 years of defense commercial litigation experience in both state and federal courts, excellent research and writing abilities, and a strong commitment to client service. We are looking for associates who are enthusiastic about litigation and who want to develop and grow their litigation skills by working alongside exceptional attorneys. Candidates must have Florida litigation experience and be admitted to the Florida Bar.

Government attorneys with litigation experience and candidates with judicial clerkship experience are encouraged to apply.

Where You’ll Work

This position is based in our Sarasota office. A hybrid arrangement is available on a case‑by‑case basis.

What You’ll Do

• Conduct legal research and develop case strategy for commercial disputes
• Collaborate with partners, associates, and support staff on case strategy and litigation management
• Draft pleadings, discovery, and legal memoranda
• Attend and participate in court hearings, depositions, and trials
• Maintain positive client relationships and provide updates on case developments
• Manage caseload efficiently while meeting litigation deadlines and billable requirements

What We’re Looking For

• Juris Doctor degree from an ABA accredited law school and active membership in good standing with the Florida Bar
• A minimum of 1-3 years of commercial litigation experience in local and state court
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills including a strong aptitude for managing and prioritizing multiple projects and deadlines
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A thorough knowledge and understanding of local, state and federal rules of procedure
• Ability to work with a variety of attorneys and staff, and maintain a high degree of confidentiality

Who We Are

We’re not just another law firm - we’re something different. The attorneys at Shumaker are known for creating strong, collaborative working relationships with each other and with their clients. Shumaker attorneys experience true camaraderie, backed by a unique paralegal and staff infrastructure, that allows their practice to thrive. As one of the 200 largest law firms in the United States, we look for skilled professionals who want to build a lifelong career with us.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting frequently, approximately six out of eight hours per day. Sitting position static for up to one-half hour at a time.
• Standing or walking frequently, up to six hours per day.
• Lifting and carrying up to 20 pounds occasionally, up to one hour per day.
• Bending and stooping occasionally, up to one-half hour per day.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities to ensure equal access to employment opportunities. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please let us know.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.