Trial Lawyer in Training - Associate Attorney

Job description

Trial Lawyer in Training — Associate Attorney Zinda Law Group | Austin, Texas Most law firms say they want to build trial lawyers. Very few actually do. We do. This is not a research-and-document-review position. This is a structured, demanding program designed to turn talented attorneys into elite litigators — with real cases, real mentorship, and real courtroom experience from day one. If you want to become a serious trial lawyer, this role was built for you. The Opportunity As a Trial Lawyer in Training at Zinda Law Group, you will work directly alongside experienced lead trial lawyers on active, high-value cases. You will be trusted with meaningful litigation responsibility early — not after years of back-office work — and you will have a defined path to becoming a Lead Trial Lawyer. You will function as both a high-level litigation associate and a trial lawyer in training, with a clear promotion structure tied entirely to your performance. What You'll Be Doing Draft substantive motions, briefs, pleadings, and discovery Conduct complex legal research that directly shapes trial strategy Prepare cases for mediation and trial — every time, on every file Work with experts on liability, damages, and medical issues Participate in depositions, hearings, mediations, and trials Progressively take ownership of depositions, motion arguments, and portions of trials Maintain files in a trial-ready posture at all times The Trial Lawyer in Training Program Your growth here is structured, earned, and fast if you perform. Phase 1 — Trainee / Associate High-volume, high-quality litigation work. Close mentorship. Strict deadlines and high expectations. Phase 2 — Junior Lead Trial Lawyer Ownership of cases under partner oversight. First-chair smaller trials or second-chair major cases. Strategic decision-making responsibilities. Phase 3 — Lead Trial Lawyer Full responsibility for a litigation docket. Trial leadership. Mentorship of the next generation. Advancement is based on performance, preparation, and results — not how long you've been here. Compensation Component Range Base Salary - $125,000 - $250,000 Performance Bonus - $25,000 - $100,000 Origination Bonus: Uncapped - get paid for generating cases Total Compensation - $125,000 - $350,000 Benefits 20 days PTO + 10 paid holidays Medical, vision, and dental (firm covers 100% of employee medical) IRA with up to 3% company match Paid parental leave Who Thrives Here This is a high-performance legal training environment. It is not a lifestyle law job. You're a strong fit if you: Want to try cases — not just talk about trial work Like being held to a high standard and given real feedback Are competitive, analytical, and obsessive about preparation Want a steep learning curve and meaningful responsibility early Are coachable and serious about becoming excellent This is not the role if you're looking for: Predictable, low-pressure work Minimal accountability A slow or undefined career path Qualifications Licensed and in good standing with the Texas, Arizona, Colorado, or New Mexico State Bar 0–5 years of experience (litigation experience preferred) Strong legal writing ability — motions, briefs, discovery, memos Demonstrated analytical and research skills Ambition and a relentless work ethic Highly coachable with a low ego and high standards Excellent organizational skills and ability to work with support staff Knowledge of TRCP and Rules of Evidence preferred Bilingual in Spanish is a plus Why Lawyers Choose Zinda Law Group We actually try cases We invest heavily in training and mentorship We give responsibility early — and back it up with support We build careers, not just resumes Advancement is merit-based and moves as fast as you do If you want real responsibility, real mentorship, and a real path to becoming a lead trial lawyer — apply now. Zinda Law Group is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other protected status as required by applicable law. By submitting this application, I understand Zinda Law may review publicly available information about me in order to assess my suitability for employment. This job description outlines the general nature and responsibilities of the role but is not an exhaustive list of all duties, skills, or requirements. Duties may be adjusted as needed, and team members may be asked to perform other tasks as assigned, in compliance with applicable laws. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities.