Product Liability Associate (Defense - Toxic Tort or Product Liability acceptable)

  • Category
    Legal
  • Location
    Chicago, Illinois
  • Type
    Direct hire
Product Liability Associate

**Ideal target attorneys will have backgrounds in toxic tort and/or product liability**

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid 3/2 Schedule)
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive salary, commensurate with experience + bonus.
  • Bonuses: Merit-based discretionary bonuses, paid annually in January, averaging 13% of salary (ranging from 5% to 28% of base salary). Bonuses are determined by billable hours (2,000-hour target), collections, work product quality, and performance reviews (no fixed formula).
  • Raises: Annual raises, typically 5–10% of salary, awarded in July, with some exceeding this range based on performance.
  • Profit Sharing / Retirement Plan: Annual discretionary contribution, averaging 3–5% of salary will be contributed by the firm into employees 401(k) plans.
  • Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical (70% of premiums covered), dental, vision, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage.
  • Additional perks include a transportation benefit, paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and parental leave), and a free 24-hour gym membership.
Work Environment and Professional Development:
  • Work Arrangement: Hybrid schedule (3 days in-office, 2 days remote), with a strong preference for in-office presence, particularly for court-related assignments.
  • Mentorship: Structured program assigning associates a senior associate and partner mentor.
  • Training: Monthly CLE sessions on varied legal topics and biweekly litigation luncheons to explore recent cases, case law, and workflow solutions.
  • Performance Reviews: Conducted twice annually (January and June/July) with comprehensive written feedback.
  • Candidates will be considered for their fit within the firm’s partnership track, with flexibility for those slightly outside the experience range.
Position Overview: A distinguished Chicago law firm consisting of approximately 35 attorneys, is recruiting an Associate to join its thriving litigation practice, specializing in product liability defense. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented attorney with a strong background in toxic tort or products liability litigation, eager to tackle complex legal challenges in a supportive, team-oriented environment. The firm emphasizes professional growth through mentorship, ongoing training, and opportunities to take ownership of high-stakes cases.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Manage all phases of products liability defense litigation, with a focus on discovery processes and document review.
  • Perform in-depth legal research and draft compelling motions, briefs, and other legal documents.
  • Represent clients in court and depositions, showcasing strong oral advocacy skills.
  • Prioritize and organize multiple cases while meeting tight deadlines with precision.
  • Work independently, demonstrating initiative and sound judgment in case management.
  • Communicate effectively with clients and colleagues, maintaining professionalism in all interactions.
Qualifications:
  • Active Illinois State Bar license.
  • 3–5 years of litigation experience, with a strong preference for expertise in products liability or toxic tort defense.
  • Candidates with slightly more or less experience may be considered, with potential salary adjustments for those with greater experience.
  • Superior research, writing, and analytical capabilities.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and a proactive mindset.
  • Ability to handle complex legal issues independently while collaborating within a team.
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