Litigation Associate (1-4 Years)

About Us

Seward Henderson is a boutique civil defense firm focused on high-stakes litigation across Michigan’s state and federal courts. We represent municipalities, law enforcement, EMS providers, and private organizations in complex, high-exposure cases—often where the facts are difficult, the scrutiny is high, and the margin for error is small.

We try cases. We win cases. And we handle matters other firms avoid or overcomplicate.

The Role

We are hiring an associate with 1–4 years of experience who wants more than document review and endless drafting cycles.

Here, you will:

• Take ownership of cases early—not years down the line
• Work directly with clients, experts, and decision-makers
• Handle depositions, motion practice, and court appearances
• Contribute to trial strategy and case direction—not just execution
• Be pushed to think, not just produce

This is a fast-paced, client-driven practice. You will be expected to be responsive, prepared, and accountable for your work.

What Makes This Different

Most firms promise “hands-on experience.” We actually give it.

• Real responsibility, early — You won’t wait years to matter
• Autonomy with accountability — You own your cases, and your decisions
• High-level work — §1983, police defense, municipal liability, EMS defense, premises liability, and other complex claims
• Trial-focused environment — We prepare every case like it’s going to trial

You will grow quickly here—but only if you are willing to meet the standard.

Who This Is For

You are:

• Motivated to become a real courtroom lawyer, not just a paper litigator
• Comfortable taking ownership and being accountable for outcomes
• Able to manage deadlines, pressure, and competing priorities
• A strong writer and clear thinker who values precision

Who This Is NOT For

This is not a good fit if you:

• Want a remote or hybrid position
• Prefer a slow-paced or highly structured environment
• Need constant direction or hand-holding
• Are looking for predictable, low-pressure work

Our clients operate in real time. So do we.

Requirements

• JD and active Michigan bar admission (or eligibility)
• 1–4 years of litigation experience preferred
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary with a defined bonus structure and clear performance targets
• Full benefits: health, life, disability, 401(k) match, bar dues
• Covered parking in downtown Royal Oak

Our Culture

We are a small team that takes our work seriously.

We value:

• Accountability
• Precision
• Initiative
• Continuous improvement

Wins are earned. Growth is expected.

If you want to build a litigation career—not just have a litigation job—we’d like to hear from you.

Apply

Submit your resume and a writing sample.