South Dakota Civil Litigation Associate

Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is seeking a talented civil litigation attorney with 3+ years of experience in business disputes, employment litigation, contract disputes, and construction claims. The role covers pleadings, discovery, motion practice, mediation, trial, and appeal, with licensure in SD and potential licensure in IA and NE. The firm serves clients across the U.S.

and internationally. The ideal candidate will represent clients through all phases of litigation and contribute to business

Qualifications

• 3+ years of civil litigation experience.
• Proven trial and courtroom experience, including depositions, motions, hearings, and trial preparation.
• Exceptional legal writing, analytical, and research skills.
• Self-starter able to work independently in a hybrid/remote environment.
• Willingness to engage in business development and foster client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Case Management: Handle all aspects of civil litigation, including drafting pleadings, discovery, court hearings, and representation in depositions, mediations, and trials.
• Legal Research & Writing: Conduct in-depth legal research and prepare persuasive briefs, motions, and memoranda.
• Client Communication: Provide clear, responsive communication with clients to build relationships.
• Business Development: Contribute to firm growth by networking and developing new business opportunities.
• Collaboration: Work with attorneys, paralegals, and staff in a hybrid/remote environment.
• Stay Informed: Keep current on laws and rulings affecting cases and strategy.

Skills

Civil litigation experience

Trial and courtroom experience

Legal writing and research

Independent work ethic

Business development

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

Job Overview: We are currently seeking a talented and experienced civil litigation attorney to join our team. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of experience handling civil litigation matters, including business disputes, employment litigation, contract disputes, construction claims, and similar cases. This individual will play a key role in representing clients through all phases of litigation, including pleadings, discovery, motion practice, mediation, trial, and appeal. Applicants must be licensed in South Dakota and able to obtain licensure in Iowa and Nebraska. While candidates with an established client base are preferred, a willingness to develop business and foster new client relationships is encouraged. Halbach|Szwarc attorneys are licensed across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming and serve clients across the U.S. and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Case Management: Handle all aspects of civil litigation, including drafting pleadings, conducting discovery, attending court hearings, and representing clients in depositions, mediations, and trials, with an emphasis on creative solutions.
• Legal Research & Writing: Conduct in-depth legal research and prepare persuasive briefs, motions, and legal memoranda.
• Client Communication: Provide responsive, clear, and professional communication with clients to build and maintain strong relationships.
• Business Development: Contribute to the firm's growth through networking, fostering client relationships, and developing new business opportunities.
• Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other attorneys, paralegals, and support staff in a hybrid/remote work environment.
• Stay Informed: Keep current on changes in laws and court rulings that could affect client cases or litigation strategy.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• 3+ years of experience in civil litigation.
• Proven trial and courtroom experience, including depositions, motion and hearings and trial preparation
• Exceptional legal writing, analytical, and research skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage multiple cases, and meet deadlines effectively in a hybrid work environment.
• Willingness to engage in business development activities and foster client relationships.