Portland Midlevel Commercial Disputes Associate

About the Role

K&L Gates is seeking a mid-level associate to join the Commercial Disputes practice in our Portland office. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in litigation, with the ability to manage cases independently from inception to resolution. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional legal analysis, strategic thinking, and advocacy skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of complex litigation matters from start to finish, including conducting legal research, drafting pleadings, motions, and briefs.
• Develop and implement case strategies in collaboration with other team members to achieve favorable outcomes for clients.
• Conduct depositions, witness interviews, and all aspects of discovery.
• Prepare and argue motions and briefs before state and federal courts.
• Communicate effectively with clients to keep them informed of case developments and negotiate settlements when appropriate.
• Stay current on legal developments, trends, and best practices in litigation.
• Assist with business development efforts, including client presentations and networking events.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the state bar and in good standing. California and Washington bar admissions are a plus.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience practicing litigation law, with a focus on commercial litigation preferred.
• Strong litigation skills, including drafting pleadings, conducting discovery, and representing clients in court.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and make strategic decisions.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality legal services and achieving favorable outcomes for clients.
• Experience with electronic discovery and litigation support tools preferred.

Candidates will work closely with experienced lawyers who provide active mentoring and opportunities to assume increasing levels of responsibility and client contact. We require strong academic credentials, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to providing the highest quality work-product and client service.

Pay

Base compensation: $200,000 - $240,000 per year. The salary for this position will be determined during the interview process and will vary based on factors such as prior experience, relevant expertise, current business needs, and market conditions.

About the Firm

K&L Gates is a fully integrated global law firm with lawyers located in more than 40 offices. We have experienced dramatic growth in the past decade and now rank among the largest U.S.-based law firms in the world. We take pride in constantly striving for innovation, imagination, and an entrepreneurial spirit. We come up with big ideas and then roll up our sleeves to get the job done, guiding our clients through their most complex issues in a variety of industry sectors and across multiple regions of the world.

The people at K&L Gates are committed to working together to create a legacy for each other, the firm, our clients, and the communities in which we serve. We thrive in an inclusive and socially conscious environment that embraces diversity and takes a holistic approach to the career evolution of all our professionals.

Benefits

K&L Gates offers a comprehensive suite of benefits to help meet your needs now and in the future. Depending on eligibility, options for full-time Associates include:

• Medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Savings Account feature.
• Pre-tax commuting benefits.
• Business travel accident insurance.
• Pet insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Health advocacy services.
• Short- and long-term disability protection.
• Identity protection/restoration and fraud insurance.
• Life insurance (including basic, supplemental, spouse, child, and accidental death and dismemberment).
• Student loan refinancing options and access to a student loan concierge service.
• Paid time off (generally 3-4 weeks).
• Addiction resources.
• Parental leave (24 weeks, of which 12 are paid; short-term disability may provide additional paid time off).
• Breast milk delivery and lactation support services.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Family building benefits.
• Pro bono opportunities.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Professional development and CLE credit opportunities.
• Employee assistance program.
• Bar expense reimbursement.
• 529 deductions.
• Relocation accident insurance.
• Balanced hours program.
• Critical illness insurance.
• Ramp-up/ramp-down program.
• Hospital indemnity insurance.
• Employee referral program.
• Bereavement leave.
• Hybrid/remote work opportunities.
• Back-up child/elder care and access to a caregiving concierge.
• Technology, entertainment, and travel discount program.
• Wellness program.
• All other benefits (such as leaves of absence) required by law.