Business Litigation Associate

Direct Counsel is partnering with a highly respected, full-service business law firm seeking a Mid to Senior-Level Business Litigation Associate to join its growing Litigation Practice Group in Nashville. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with at least four years of sophisticated litigation experience who is eager to take ownership of matters, contribute strategically to case development, and work closely with clients and firm leadership.

The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical abilities, exceptional writing skills, and experience managing complex litigation matters in both state and federal courts. This role offers meaningful client interaction, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to a broad range of commercial disputes.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all phases of litigation, including pleadings, discovery, motion practice, trial preparation, and resolution.

• Draft, argue, and respond to dispositive motions, discovery motions, and motions for summary judgment.

• Take and defend depositions, including complex witness examinations.

• Participate in mediations, hearings, arbitrations, and court appearances.

• Collaborate with partners on litigation strategy, client counseling, and case management.

• Maintain direct communication with clients, opposing counsel, and courts.

• Supervise and mentor junior attorneys and paralegals as appropriate.

• Assist with business development initiatives and client relationship management.

• Support trial teams through witness preparation, pre-trial motions, and overall litigation strategy.

Core Competencies

The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to:

• Analyze complex fact patterns and provide sound legal recommendations.

• Independently manage smaller matters with minimal supervision.

• Handle moderately complex commercial litigation cases from inception through resolution.

• Second-chair sophisticated litigation matters and first-chair simpler cases.

• Prepare and argue complex pre-trial motions in state and federal courts.

• Effectively prepare witnesses and deponents for testimony.

• Conduct and defend complex depositions.

• Adapt quickly to new substantive areas of law as client needs evolve.

• Deliver exceptional client service while maintaining strong organizational and matter management practices.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials.

• Active Tennessee Bar membership and good standing.

• Minimum of 4 years of recent business or commercial litigation experience in a law firm environment.

• Strong familiarity with Tennessee state and federal court procedures.

• Proven experience drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, and other litigation documents.

• Excellent written and oral advocacy skills.

• Strong negotiation and problem-solving abilities.

• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Collaborative mindset and commitment to professional development and mentorship.

Compensation & Benefits

The firm offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.

• Multiple bonus opportunities.

• Unlimited paid time off.

• 401(k) retirement plan.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.

• Professional development and advancement opportunities.

• A collaborative, entrepreneurial culture that supports long-term career growth and exceptional client service.

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented litigator seeking sophisticated work, meaningful client interaction, and the chance to grow within a dynamic and expanding practice platform.