Associate Attorney - Asbestos Defense

Overview

The organization is seeking a motivated Associate Attorney with 2+ years of experience in asbestos defense or toxic tort litigation to join its national asbestos defense team. This role supports national coordinating counsel work for prominent clients and provides exposure to complex litigation, national case strategy, and trial preparation.

Associates will work on both day-to-day local counsel matters and national counsel responsibilities, contributing across multiple jurisdictions throughout the litigation lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• National and local counsel support: Assist with day-to-day local counsel matters while supporting national coordinating counsel responsibilities.
• Litigation strategy: Evaluate claims, analyze exposure and causation issues, develop defense strategies, and contribute to case assessment and resolution.
• Motion practice and discovery: Draft pleadings, written discovery, motions, and briefs; manage discovery; and assist with expert development and strategy.
• Depositions and hearings: Prepare for and conduct depositions of fact and expert witnesses; attend court conferences and hearings; participate in mediations and settlement negotiations.
• Trial preparation: Collaborate with national and local counsel on trial strategy, witness preparation, evidentiary issues, and trial readiness.
• Client and co-counsel collaboration: Communicate with clients, insurers, co-counsel, and opposing counsel to help manage litigation efficiently and effectively.

Requirements

• Education: J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Licensure: Active license in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• Experience: At least 2 years of experience in asbestos defense, toxic tort defense, or related complex litigation.
• Relevant case experience (preferred): Experience involving silica, benzene, or other toxic exposure claims.
• Skills: Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
• Litigation experience: Experience with discovery, motion practice, depositions, and litigation strategy.
• Organization: Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities across multiple matters and jurisdictions.
• Approach: Proactive, collaborative, client-focused approach to litigation.
• Jurisdictional flexibility: Willingness to work across jurisdictions and contribute to national litigation and trial preparation efforts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred bar admissions: California, Illinois, New York, or Massachusetts.
• Additional jurisdictions: Admission in additional jurisdictions is a plus.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation: Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Benefits include:
  • 401(k) with firm match
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health savings and flexible spending accounts
  • Paid time off and parental leave
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Employee assistance and wellness programs
  • Continuing legal education and professional development support

Location

Work can be performed from anywhere in the United States, provided the associate is licensed and in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction. Associates may also work remotely or from one of the organization’s office locations.

Candidates licensed in California, Illinois, New York, or Massachusetts are particularly encouraged to apply.