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Direct Counsel

Appellate Litigation Associate Attorney at Direct Counsel

Direct Counsel Chicago, Illinois

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description
Mid-Level Appellate Litigation Associate Attorney (4th–6th Year)
Locations: Atlanta; Boston; Chicago; Dallas; Houston; Irvine; Los Angeles; New York; Palo Alto; San Diego; San Francisco; Washington, D.C.

Direct Counsel is seeking a Mid-Level Appellate Litigation Associate Attorney to join a top-tier global law firm renowned for its sophisticated appellate and Supreme Court practice. This is an exceptional opportunity to work alongside leading litigators on high-impact appellate matters across the United States.

About the Role:
The firm’s Supreme Court and Appellate Group is seeking an associate with 4–6 years of experience handling appellate litigation, complex legal issues, and brief writing at the highest level. The role involves crafting persuasive appellate briefs, preparing for oral arguments, and collaborating with trial teams on issue preservation and strategy in high-stakes cases.

Qualifications:

  • J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school with outstanding academic credentials.

  • 4–6 years of substantive appellate litigation experience (issues and appeals, motion and brief drafting).

  • Federal appellate or Supreme Court clerkship experience preferred.

  • Admission to the Bar in the jurisdiction where the candidate will be located (or eligibility for prompt admission).

  • Exceptional writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.

  • A collaborative, detail-oriented approach and the ability to manage multiple complex matters simultaneously.

Compensation & Benefits:
The expected base salary range for this position is $310,000–$390,000, depending on experience, location, and other relevant factors. The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; life and disability insurance; and additional wellness programs.

Why Join:
This role offers exposure to some of the most significant appellate cases nationwide, direct mentorship from distinguished appellate practitioners, and the opportunity to shape the law at both the federal and state levels—all within a supportive and intellectually rigorous environment.


Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
This employer is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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