Toxic Tort Associate Attorney

Wilson Elser - Attorneys; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Generous PTO

Corporate discounts

Job summary

Wilson Elser’s Chicago office seeks a Toxic Tort Associate Attorney to defend clients in talc, silicosis, asbestos, and related toxic tort matters. The role supports a collaborative, collegial environment with a flexible, hybrid working arrangement.

Ideal candidates hold a JD, Illinois admission, and 2+ years in toxic tort litigation. Salary range is competitive, and the firm offers comprehensive benefits; discretionary bonuses may apply, with eligibility for 401(k) retirement, health, dental,

Qualifications

• JD from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Admitted to practice in Illinois.
• 2+ years of toxic tort litigation experience preferred.
• Experience drafting discovery and pretrial motions.
• Experience cross-examining plaintiffs and other witnesses preferred.
• Experience handling court appearances and depositions.
• Superior analytical skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, legal memoranda, and other legal documents.
• Attend court hearings, depositions, and mediations.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues across departments and offices.
• Independently manage a litigation caseload as part of a team.
• Communicate with clients and provide status reports.

Skills

Legal drafting

Court appearances

Litigation experience

Analytical skills

Written & oral communication

Cross-examination

Education

J.D. from ABA-accredited law school

Job description

At Wilson Elser , we are redefining what it means to work at a national law firm. With more than 1,400 attorneys across 46 offices nationwide, we are recognized among the top 100 law firms by The American Lawyer and ranked #30 in the National Law Journal’s survey of the nation’s largest law firms.

Our continued success is built on a culture of collaboration, innovation, client service, and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering an environment where attorneys are empowered to grow their careers, contribute meaningfully, and thrive professionally.

Wilson Elser's Chicago's office is currently seeking a Toxic Tort Associate Attorney to join a team of talented professionals in a collaborative, collegial environment. Our firm is committed to developing professionals who value each other and the service we provide through Teamwork, Collaboration, Client Service, and Innovation. If you are a motivated professional looking for a long-term fit, where you can grow in a role, and be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply.

This position offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement.

The Position

This attorney will represent sophisticated clients confronted with complex legal challenges to defend a set of talc, silicosis, asbestos, and other toxic tort matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, legal memoranda, and other legal documents
• Attend court hearings, depositions, and mediations
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues across departments and offices, contributing to a cohesive and supportive team environment
• Independently manage a litigation caseload as part of a team, working cases from beginning to end
• Communicate with clients and provide status reports

Qualifications

• JD from an ABA accredited law school
• Admitted to practice in the state of Illinois
• 2+ years of toxic tort litigation experience preferred
• Asbestos, talc, silicosis, diacetyl, benzene, or related toxic tort experience preferred
• Experience drafting discovery and pretrial motions required
• Experience cross-examining plaintiffs and other fact witnesses preferred
• Experience handling court appearances, depositions, and trial experience a plus
• Superior analytical skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills

Wilson Elser offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our attorneys both professionally and personally.

A variety of factors are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, education, licensure and/or certifications, geographic location, market demands, other business and organizational needs, and other factors permitted by law. This position is also eligible for discretionary bonuses. Final salary wages offered may be outside of this range based on other reasons and individual circumstances. This position is considered full-time and therefore qualifies for benefits including 401(k) retirement savings plan, medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

Salary Range:

$140,000 - $190,000 USD

Why Join Wilson Elser?

• Meaningful Work: Handle sophisticated matters alongside experienced attorneys and partners
• Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive team environment that values mentorship and professional development
• Advancement: Gain opportunities for long-term growth within a nationally recognized firm
• Hybrid Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible hybrid work arrangement that supports work-life balance
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, generous PTO, 401(k) match, and robust medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
• Additional Perks: Access to corporate discount programs and employee benefits