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What does a Litigation Associate do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A litigation associate is a lawyer who specializes in representing clients in court. They may also work on cases that are being settled out of court.

Litigation Associate job duties include:

  • Conducts legal research on various topics related to litigation
  • Assists in drafting legal documents such as motions, briefs, and pleadings
  • Attends and assists in the preparation for depositions, mediations, and arbitration hearings
  • Analyzes and interprets discovery materials
  • Maintains communication with clients to keep them updated on the status of their case
  • Coordinates with other members of the litigation team, including paralegals and support staff
  • Manages deadlines and caseloads effectively
  • Participates in continuing legal education courses to stay abreast of latest developments in the law
  • Adheres to ethical standards of the legal profession

Litigation Associate Job Requirements

The job requirements for a Litigation Associate are a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school, admission to the state bar, and three to five years of experience in civil litigation. The Litigation Associate must have excellent research and writing skills, strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, and be able to work independently.

Litigation Associate Skills

  • Analytical
  • Research
  • Writing
  • Argument
  • Critical thinking
  • Logical
  • Persuasive
  • Attention to detail
  • Multitasking
  • Organizational
  • Time management

Related: Top Litigation Associate Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Litigation Associate

There are many ways to become a litigation associate. The most common way is to attend law school and then pass the bar exam in the state where you wish to practice. Once you have passed the bar, you can then begin working as a litigation associate at a law firm.

Another way to become a litigation associate is to work as a law clerk for a judge or another attorney. This can be done while you are in law school or after you have graduated. Working as a law clerk will give you an inside look at how the legal system works and how cases are litigated. It is also a good way to make contacts within the legal community.

Once you have decided that you would like to become a litigation associate, there are a few things that you can do to increase your chances of being hired by a law firm. First, it is important that you take courses in civil procedure and evidence. These courses will teach you the basics of how cases are litigated and will give you an edge when applying for jobs.

Second, try to get involved in extracurricular activities related to litigation such as moot court or mock trial competitions. Participating in these activities will show potential employers that you have an interest in this area of law and that you have the skills necessary to be successful.

Third, consider interning at a law firm during your summers in college or during your first year of law school. This will give you valuable experience working with attorneys and observing how they litigate cases. It is also a great way to make connections within the legal community.

Fourth, try to get published in a legal journal or write articles on topics related to litigation. This will show potential employers that you are knowledgeable about this area of law and that you have good writing skills.

Fifth, consider taking the bar exam in multiple states. This will make you more marketable to potential employers and will allow you to practice in multiple jurisdictions if necessary.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of becoming a successful litigation associate.

Related: Litigation Associate Resume Example

Related: Litigation Associate Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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