Employment Litigation Associate

Litigation Associate Attorney About Us The Law Firm of J.W. Stafford, LLC, based in Columbia, Maryland, is a growing firm focusing on employment law and professional license defense. Our mission is to provide exceptional representation and high-quality work product for clients facing complex legal challenges. As our practice continues to expand, we are seeking a Litigation Associate with at least 3 years of complex litigation experience to join our dynamic and collaborative team. Employment law experience is preferred but not required. Who We're Looking For We are looking for a motivated, detail-oriented, and client-focused attorney who is eager to take ownership of cases and engage directly with clients on sophisticated legal matters. You should be committed to excellence, ready to grow professionally, and excited to contribute to a supportive team culture. What We Value At J.W. Stafford, we live by "Above the Line" principles , which guide how we work and treat one another:

Accountability :

See it, own it, solve it, do it.

Initiative :

Be part of the solution and act now.

Respect :

Value others and their perspectives. Commitment to

Excellence :

Reject average and take pride in your work.

Continuous Improvement :

Ask, "What else can I do?" and "What can I do better?"

Empathy and Care :

Show clients and colleagues that you care. Responsibilities Represent clients in federal and state courts, as well as before government agencies (EEOC, MSPB, state licensing boards). Draft legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and discovery responses. Advise clients on employment law and professional license defense issues. Negotiate settlements and represent clients in mediations. Handle court appearances, depositions, and trials. Contribute to the firm's thought leadership (e.g., blogs, webinars). Meet billable hour requirements. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of employment and administrative law. Collaborate effectively with colleagues and contribute to a positive firm culture.

Qualifications Required:

At least 2 years of complex litigation experience (employment law preferred but not required). Licensed to practice law in Maryland; DC bar license a plus. Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Excellent oral and written communication abilities. Client-focused with the ability to build rapport and trust. Experience litigating federal cases, including handling summary judgment motions. First-chaired at least one deposition.

Preferred:

Journal or moot court experience. Experience with federal employee representation (EEOC, MSPB, proposed removals/suspensions). Familiarity with statutes like Title VII, ADA, FMLA, Rehabilitation Act, FLSA.

Compensation & Benefits Salary :

$105,000 - $130,000 (commensurate with experience). Performance-based bonuses. 401(k) plan with matching. Health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Paid time off. Bar license fee reimbursement. Supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth. Work Location In-person at our Columbia, MD office. How to Apply If you are a dedicated and driven attorney looking for meaningful client interaction and high-quality litigation work, we encourage you to apply by emailing careers@staffordtrialteam.com.

Please submit:

Resume 2 Writing Samples (8-10 pages each)

Job Type:

Full-time Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person

Pay:

$105,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person