What are the responsibilities and job description for the Civil Litigation Associate position at Schaffer Kennedy Johnson?
Schaffer Kennedy Johnson is a premier boutique trial and appellate firm dedicated to providing exceptional legal counsel and representation in high-stakes federal and state criminal defense, as well as civil and business litigation and appeals. We specialize in complex commercial disputes, shareholder litigation, white-collar criminal defense, and professional liability.
Based in Houston, Texas, the firm takes pride in delivering tailored solutions to solve problems for its diverse clientele. Known for its commitment to excellence and integrity, Schaffer Kennedy Johnson fosters a collaborative and innovative work environment. The firm is focused on achieving the best outcomes for its clients while promoting professional growth and development among its team members.
The Role
We are seeking a disciplined, high-caliber Civil Litigation Associate to work on complex matters that require both intellectual depth and tactical aggression. This is a full-time role. The Civil Litigation Associate will be responsible for factual investigation and discovery, conducting legal research, drafting pleadings, motions, and discovery, and representing clients in civil litigation matters.
Daily responsibilities include preparing case strategies and advising clients on their legal rights and potential outcomes, and effectuating case strategies to achieve the goals of clients. The role requires exceptional analytical, writing, and communication skills, along with the ability to imagine, develop, and deploy creative solutions to efficiently and effectively resolve complex legal cases.
This is not a “back-office” role. You will be expected to take active ownership of case files, interface with high-net-worth clients, and play a meaningful role in the courtroom.
Required Qualifications
- Experience: 3–6 years of litigation or appellate experience. Judicial clerkships will be credited toward required experience.
- Clerkships: A federal or state judicial clerkship or high-level judicial internship—particularly at the U.S. District Court, Court of Appeals, or Supreme Court level—is highly desired.
- Education: J.D. from an accredited law school with a strong academic record.
- Academic Honors: Service on the editorial board of a Law Review/Journal (e.g., Articles Editor, Managing Editor) or notable Moot Court/Mock Trial achievements (e.g., Order of Barristers) is a significant plus.
- Licensure: Active admission to the State Bar of Texas is required. Must be a member in good standing.
Skills Desired
- Attention to Detail: Must demonstrate attention to detail in legal research, writing, and discovery, coupled with sound analytical skills.
- Research and Writing: Exceptional legal research, writing and communication skills are required. Experience conducting discovery and drafting/reviewing pleadings is preferred.
- Reliability and Organization: Must be dependable and able to reliably handle client matters with oversight from senior lawyers. Must demonstrate effective organization and time management techniques and be capable of balancing competing priorities.
- Software Proficiency: Experience with discovery management applications and other legal software, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Excel is a plus.
- Complimentary Experience: A professional background or strong aptitude in complementary fields such as accounting, technology, or business management is advantageous.
Why SKJ?
- Direct Mentorship: Work side-by-side with seasoned trial lawyers who value excellence and professional growth.
- Sophisticated Work: Handle “Big Law” level cases with the agility and autonomy of a boutique environment.
- Clear Path: We hire for the long term. There is a transparent trajectory for associates who demonstrate excellence and business development aptitude.
- Compensation: Competitive base salary commensurate with experience, plus a performance-based bonus structure and comprehensive benefits.
How to Apply
Please submit the following:
- Resume highlighting specific litigation milestones, clerkships, and academic honors.
- A Writing Sample (preferably a substantive motion or brief) that is primarily your own work product.