Conflicts Attorney

Overview

A Washington, DC-based Am Law 100 law firm is seeking a Conflicts Attorney to join its team. This position is available in the Washington, DC office or remotely, with equal consideration for qualified candidates in locations where remote work arrangements can be supported.

The Conflicts Attorney will be a key member of the Conflicts and Intake Compliance team, responsible for proactively identifying, researching, and resolving potential conflicts of interest. This role supports the firm-wide conflicts and new business intake process as well as the lateral hire conflicts clearance process by handling complex conflict analysis and recommending or implementing appropriate resolutions to ensure effective conflict management throughout the client and matter intake lifecycle. The position involves close collaboration with lawyers across all offices, including international locations, in a high-volume, fast-paced environment. Additional support for client outside counsel guideline reviews may be required.

The anticipated base salary range for this position is $150,000–$160,000, with the actual salary determined based on experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.

Responsibilities

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the ABA Rules of Professional Conduct, including working knowledge of the D.C. Rules, and apply them accurately when reviewing and clearing conflict of interest issues.
• Conduct legal research related to conflict-of-interest issues and stay informed about current developments in conflict rules, cases, and opinions.
• Identify, review, and analyze conflicts issues; facilitate appropriate resolutions and escalate complex issues when necessary.
• Review, modify, and approve client engagement letters.
• Draft conflicts waivers and disclosures, ensuring alignment with firm policies, procedures, and risk-management requirements.
• Monitor and respond promptly to email inquiries related to conflicts and intake review requests, conflicts reports, clearance questions, engagement letter reviews, and informal search interpretation requests.
• Prepare clear, concise communications identifying all potential issues in conflict reports to facilitate efficient matter clearance.
• Prepare and distribute ethical-screen memoranda and implement screens within the ethical wall database.
• Assist in developing written process documentation, best practices, and standardized procedures to support consistent departmental operations.
• Maintain a strong understanding of current departmental policies and act as a resource regarding new business intake processes.
• Adhere to strict confidentiality requirements, exercise sound judgment, and utilize discretion when handling sensitive information to ensure compliance with ethical and business obligations.
• Navigate conflicts database and develop a thorough working knowledge of the Intapp platform and other technologies used within the Conflicts and Intake Compliance Department.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and admission to a local bar (active and in good standing); admission to the D.C. bar preferred.
• Working knowledge of the D.C. Rules of Professional Conduct.
• At least two years of experience in a conflict attorney role at a law firm.
• Legal writing and research experience aligned with the responsibilities of this position.
• Ability to work under high pressure, independently manage work production with short deadlines, and meet timeliness demands for the new business opening process.
• Consistent attention to detail with the ability to follow instructions and apply solution-oriented approaches.
• Excellent independent judgment.
• Proficiency with computer systems commonly used in law firms, including business intake systems and research platforms such as Moody’s, Bureau van Dijk (Orbis, Compliance Catalyst, World Compliance), LexisNexis, and others.
• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and respond to urgent requests outside regular business hours.

Success Factors

• Attention to detail: ability to complete complex projects and tasks accurately and timely.
• Efficiency: ability to work and problem-solve quickly and manage time effectively.
• Critical thinking and problem solving: ability to recognize novel problems or situations without clear precedent, evaluate alternatives, and find solutions using a systematic approach.
• Customer service orientation: commitment to providing a high level of service and continuously seeking improvements.
• Strong work ethic: ensures timely completion of work, maintains high attendance and punctuality, and is available for work outside normal business hours as needed.
• Interpersonal skills: ability to interact professionally with partners, staff at all levels, and clients.
• Teamwork: ability to collaborate effectively on projects and initiatives requiring input and cooperation.

Work Environment

• Non-smoking environment.
• Availability to work during regular business hours Monday through Friday.
• Ability to work beyond regular business hours and be available on call.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage high-pressure demands effectively.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary range: $150,000–$160,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, dependent care, health care flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, profit-sharing, holidays, paid time off, and a wellness program.

Location

• Washington, DC office or remote work arrangements supported where feasible.