Senior Litigation Associate

Merit Management Group; West Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Confidential Client in central Iowa is hiring a Senior Litigation Associate to manage a substantial civil caseload from intake through trial and resolution, with an expectation of first-chair trial experience and a proven ability to meet tight deadlines.

This fast-paced firm handles civil and may touch criminal matters, offering strong advancement potential, mentoring of junior lawyers, and substantial courtroom opportunities, with starting pay around $100,000+ depending on experience.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of litigation experience with a focus on trial practice.
• Active license to practice law in Iowa, in good standing.
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage a high-volume civil litigation caseload from case intake through trial and resolution.
• Serve as first chair on jury and bench trials.
• Draft, file, and argue dispositive and non-dispositive motions.
• Take and defend depositions and lead written discovery.
• Represent clients in mediations, settlement negotiations, and court hearings.
• Provide clear, timely case strategy and updates to clients.
• Mentor and guide junior associates and support staff.

Skills

Trial experience

First-chair experience

Litigation

Job description

Confidential Client: Litigation Law Firm, Central Iowa

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $100,000+ per year, based on experience

Experience: 5+ years trial practice, first-chair experience required

About the Opportunity

We’re hiring a Senior Litigation Associate for one of our clients, a fast-paced, high-volume litigation firm in central Iowa! This is a great opportunity for a trial-tested attorney who wants to spend real time in the courtroom, take ownership of a substantial caseload, and grow with a firm that offers strong advancement potential.

The practice focuses on civil litigation, with possible exposure to criminal matters.

What You'll Do

• Manage a high-volume civil litigation caseload from case intake through trial and resolution
• Serve as first chair on jury and bench trials
• Draft, file, and argue dispositive and non-dispositive motions
• Take and defend depositions and lead written discovery
• Represent clients in mediations, settlement negotiations, and court hearings
• Provide clear, timely case strategy and updates to clients
• Mentor and guide junior associates and support staff
• Handle select criminal matters as needed

Required Qualifications

• Active license to practice law in Iowa, in good standing
• 5+ years of litigation experience with a focus on trial practice
• Ability to manage a high-volume caseload and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and oral advocacy skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with criminal law matters
• Jury trial experience in Iowa state and/or federal courts

What's Offered

• Starting compensation of $100,000+, based on experience
• Significant courtroom and trial experience
• Strong opportunity for professional growth and advancement
• A collaborative, high-energy litigation team