Civil Defense Litigation Associate (3–8 Years) – VT

Practice Area: General Civil Defense Litigation

About Us

At Gfeller Laurie LLP, our success is driven by our people. We are a collaborative, growth-oriented defense litigation firm known for delivering exceptional client service while fostering a supportive, engaging, and team-oriented environment. We take pride in developing our attorneys, investing in mentorship, and creating meaningful opportunities for advancement.

Our continued growth is creating opportunities for attorneys to expand their practice, take on increased responsibility, and play a meaningful role in the firm’s long-term success.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Civil Defense Litigation Associate with 3 – 8 years of experience to join our Firm. This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney who is looking to take ownership of their cases, build strong litigation experience, and grow within a dynamic and expanding firm.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of general civil defense matters from inception through resolution
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, and discovery
• Take and defend depositions
• Attend court conferences, hearings, and mediations
• Collaborate with partners and clients to develop case strategy
• Maintain strong client communication and deliver high-quality legal work

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Admitted to practice in Vermont (New York a plus)
• 3 - 8 years of civil defense litigation experience
• Strong writing, analytical, and advocacy skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Additional state bar admission(s) a plus (CT, NJ, NY, MA, PA, )

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $140,000 – $180,000+, commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Bonus opportunities based on performance
• Comprehensive benefits package, including:
• Medical, dental and supplemental insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and firm holidays
• CLE and professional development support
• Bar dues reimbursement
• Cell phone stipend
• Firm-sponsored events, team-building activities, and more

Why Gfeller Laurie

• Collaborative, collegial environment where people genuinely enjoy working together
• Direct access to partners and meaningful mentorship
• Lean team structure providing associates with early responsibility and direct involvement in case strategy
• Meaningful, hands-on litigation experience from day one
• Clear and attainable paths for advancement within a growing firm
• Reasonable annual billable expectation of 1,850 hours, supporting both professional growth and work-life balance

Equal Opportunity Employer

Gfeller Laurie LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to maintaining a professional workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

Pay: $140,000.00 - $180,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Please describe your experience managing cases from inception through resolution.
• Describe your experience handling depositions (taking and/or defending).
• Do you have experience appearing in court (conferences, motions, hearings)? Please describe.
• What has been your typical annual billable hour requirement?
• Are you currently admitted to practice law, if so what states are you actively admitted?

Experience:

• defense litigation associate: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Rutland, VT 05701 (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Rutland, VT 05701