Associate Attorney Litigation

A law firm seeks an Associate Attorney to join its Norfolk, Virginia team, providing representation across general civil litigation, personal injury, criminal defense, and family law matters. This role offers the chance to work on a broad array of dispute-resolution and advisory assignments while collaborating closely with senior attorneys. A competitive benefits package is provided.

Duties

• Advocate for clients in civil court proceedings, including pre-trial conferences, hearings, and trials

• Prepare and file pleadings, motions, discovery requests, and other court documents with precision

• Conduct thorough case research, fact investigations, and evidence gathering for personal injury and civil claims

• Represent individuals in criminal defense matters, including arraignments, hearings, and plea negotiations

• Handle family law matters such as contested custody, support disputes, and dissolution proceedings

• Draft settlement agreements, releases, and mediation materials to facilitate amicable resolutions

• Maintain regular communication with clients to explain case status, strategy, and next steps

• Collaborate with senior attorneys on complex litigation strategies and assist with trial preparation

• Manage case files efficiently to ensure timely client updates and compliance with court deadlines

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school

• Admission to the Virginia Bar (or eligibility to sit for the Virginia Bar exam upon hire)

• Demonstrated interest or experience in civil litigation, personal injury, criminal defense, or family law

• Proficiency in legal research using platforms such as Westlaw or LexisNexis

• Strong drafting skills and attention to detail when preparing legal documents

• Ability to maintain client confidentiality and practice with professionalism and integrity

• Excellent verbal advocacy and interpersonal skills, with a client-focused mindset

• Capacity to balance a diverse caseload and prioritize tasks under pressing deadlines

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school

Certifications

• Active membership in good standing with the Virginia Bar

• Any additional certifications in trial advocacy, mediation, or specialized litigation training are a plus

Skills

• Advanced legal research and analytical abilities to support case strategy

• Skilled in drafting persuasive motions, discovery requests, and settlement documents

• Solid courtroom presence, including oral advocacy and negotiation prowess

• Competence in handling client consultations with empathy and clear communication

• Organizational acumen to manage multiple files, calendar deadlines, and court filings

• Familiarity with case-management software and electronic filing systems