General Litigation Associate

Hart McLaughlin & Eldridge is seeking a General Litigation Associate to join our team in our Chicago office. The Senior Associate will be responsible for managing all aspects of complex litigation. The ideal candidate will have 2-4 years of general litigation experience, be highly organized, self-driven, and detail-oriented, with a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. We are looking for someone who is passionate about their practice, eager to contribute meaningfully, and dedicated to upholding our firm’s commitment to client advocacy. This attorney will play a central role in managing sophisticated cases from strategy through trial or resolution.

About HME 

Hart McLaughlin & Eldridge is a leading Chicago-based litigation law firm recognized for its results-driven approach and dedication to personalized client service. Our firm handles complex litigation across a wide array of industries, including antitrust, asbestos and toxic torts, automotive and trucking, aviation, business disputes, civil rights, class actions, mass torts, construction, employment law, medical negligence, pharmaceutical litigation, premises liability, and product liability. HME is dedicated to upholding our reputation for success through strategic advocacy, exceptional client service, and results-driven legal representation. 

For more information about HME visit our website https://www.hmelegal.com/

Responsibilities:

• Manage a full caseload of litigation matters from inception through resolution.
• Draft and prepare pleadings, motions, discovery, settlement agreements, legal memoranda, and case strategy documents.
• Conduct thorough legal research and draft persuasive briefs.
• Represent clients in court proceedings, including hearings, mediations, pretrials, settlement conferences, and trials.
• Conduct and defend depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts; prepare clients and witnesses for testimony.
• Collaborate with partners on trial preparation, legal strategy, and client communication.
• Participate in arbitration, proceedings, and settlement negotiations.
• Review case materials and prepare evaluations, reports, and litigation updates.
• Ensure timely case progression, compliance with deadlines, and adherence to billing requirements.
• Contribute to the development of internal systems while mentoring and supervising junior attorneys and support staff.
• Litigate and defend general and complex tort matters on both local and federal levels.
• Manage and cultivate client relationships to support firm growth. 

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active Illinois Bar license in good standing; additional state licenses plus.
• Minimum of 2 years of litigation experience (plaintiff or defense).
• Strong background in personal injury, nursing home negligence, and general civil litigation
• Demonstrated courtroom and trial experience; first- or second-chair trial experience a plus.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage multiple cases, deadlines, and priorities effectively.
• Prior clerkship or peer-firm experience preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and work ethic; comfortable interacting with partners and clients.
• Compassionate, client-focused approach with a commitment to professionalism and excellence.

Details 

Job Type: Full Time, Direct Hire 

Schedule: Monday – Friday 

Work Location: One South Dearborn, Chicago IL 60603 

Salary Range: $95,000-120,000/Year, based on qualifications and experience*

Benefits: 

• 401(k) Employer Price Matching
• Health insurance - PPO
• Vision insurance
• Dental Insurance 

HME is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic predisposition, veteran or marital status, citizenship, or any other protected status.