Career Opportunities

Carney Badley Spellman, PS, a mid-size downtown Seattle law firm, seeks a construction associate attorney with 1-3 years of experience, emphasizing construction disputes involving scope changes, liens, claims, and delays.  Experience should include legal research, writing, and analysis; motion practice; drafting written discovery and general experience with the e-discovery process; and review and analysis of construction contracts. Additional experience preferred, but not required, includes taking and defending depositions, as well as arbitration and/or trial.

Successful candidates will be eager to practice law at a nationally recognized construction law firm, committed to professionalism and excellence, have a strong work ethic and academic credentials, excellent written and oral advocacy skills, and a desire to provide exceptional legal service. 

Skills Needed to be Effective in This Role

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the state bar and in good standing.
• Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in litigation, with a focus on construction litigation preferred.
• Strong litigation skills, including drafting pleadings, conducting discovery, and representing clients in court.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and make strategic decisions.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including building rapport with clients, fellow attorneys, and staff.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality legal services and achieving favorable outcomes for clients.
• Experience with electronic discovery and litigation support tools.
• Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Base Compensation: $135,000 – $149,000

The compensation salary for this position will be determined during the interview process and will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limited to prior experience, relevant expertise, current business needs, and market factors.

Please forward your cover letter, resume, and writing sample to turner@carneylaw.com.

Position Overview

Carney Badley Spellman, a mid-size downtown Seattle law firm known for its dedication to excellence and comprehensive legal services, is seeking an initiative-taking 2L Summer Associate to join our dynamic team for ten weeks.  This position offers an exceptional opportunity for a second-year law student to gain invaluable experience in a supportive and collaborative environment. The ideal candidate will be (1) committed to a litigation-focused practice and (2) to working in Seattle upon graduation and passing the Washington Bar exam.

Key Responsibilities

The 2L Summer Associate will work closely with experienced attorneys and legal staff, contributing to various aspects of the firm’s practice. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Legal Research: Conduct comprehensive legal research on a variety of topics, utilizing both traditional and digital resources to support ongoing cases and projects.
• Drafting Documents: Assist in drafting legal documents, including briefs, motions, pleadings, and contracts, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal standards.
• Case Preparation: Support attorneys in preparing for trials, hearings, and depositions by organizing case files, evidence, and exhibits.
• Continuous Learning: Engage in ongoing professional development and training opportunities to enhance legal knowledge and skills.

Qualifications

Candidates for the 2L Summer Associate position must meet the following qualifications:

• Education: Currently enrolled at an accredited law school.
• Academic Excellence: Demonstrated academic excellence.
• Research Skills: Proficient in legal research methodologies and familiar with legal research databases.
• Writing Skills: Strong writing skills with the ability to draft clear, concise, and well-organized legal documents.
• Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and apply legal principles to develop sound and (if needed) creative solutions.
• Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients and colleagues.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous diligence, ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in all tasks.
• Time Management: Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a demanding environment.

Working Environment

Carney Badley Spellman is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment where all employees can thrive. The firm values diversity, equity, and inclusion and strives to create a workplace that reflects these principles. The 2L Summer Associate will work in a collaborative setting with access to resources and mentorship from experienced legal professionals.

Compensation and Benefits

The weekly salary will range from $2,000 -$2,500.

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit the following application materials:

• A cover letter detailing their interest in the 2L Summer Associate position, including their commitment (1) to a litigation-focused practice and (2) to working in Seattle upon graduation and passing the Washington Bar exam.
• A current resume highlighting relevant experience and academic achievements.
• A writing sample demonstrating legal research and writing abilities.
• Law school transcripts (official or unofficial).

Applications should be submitted via email to turner@carneylaw.com. The firm will review applications on a rolling basis and schedule interviews with qualified candidates.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Carney Badley Spellman is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Location: Seattle, WA (Partial remote work option available after 45 days)
Company: Carney Badley Spellman
About Us: Carney Badley Spellman is a mid-size, full-service law firm in downtown Seattle. We serve diverse clients, including professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, closely held or family businesses, Fortune 500 companies, and global industry leaders. Our firm is committed to exceptional client service and professional excellence, and we believe every team member plays an integral role in client satisfaction. We value and foster a culture of diversity, collegiality, respect, and professional growth.
Responsibilities:
• Maintain electronic client files, including saving documents in multiple formats.
• Proofread and redline contracts, pleadings, and other documents.
• Draft legal correspondence and pleadings.
• Calendar court deadlines, virtual and in-office meetings, and follow-up with clients, experts, and opposing counsel.
• Research, review, and apply court rules in multiple jurisdictions.
• E-file in multiple Washington state and federal courts.
• Create mediation, arbitration, and trial notebooks.
• Manage process service.
• Schedule depositions and conference calls as needed.
• Work closely with case paralegals to ensure deadlines are met.
• Follow up and resend billing memos to clients.
Qualifications:
• At least 4 years of litigation and business experience.
• Proven history of supporting multiple attorneys practicing different areas of law.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Proficiency in software technology such as Microsoft Office Suite, Teams, Zoom, OneDrive, SharePoint, and document management systems like ProLaw.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Carney Badley Spellman is committed to providing equal opportunities for all employees. The pay range for this position is $65,000 – $94,000; however, the base compensation presented to a candidate may vary based on skills and overall experience.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should email their cover letter, resume, and references to Karen Turner, Director of Human Resources, at turner@carneylaw.com.