Associate Attorney

Associate Attorney (Civil Litigation)

Seattle & Tacoma, Washington

Patterson Buchanan Fobes & Leitch, Inc., P.S. (PBFL) is seeking an experienced and motivated Associate Attorney with 2-5 years of civil litigation experience to join our growing litigation team. This position offers the opportunity to work from our downtown Seattle or Tacoma offices, representing a diverse client base while gaining meaningful litigation and case management experience in a collaborative environment. PBFL is a well-established Pacific Northwest law firm known for its strong litigation practice, commitment to client service, and dedication to professional development.

About Patterson Buchanan

Founded in 2007, Patterson Buchanan Fobes & Leitch is a respected litigation-focused law firm serving clients throughout Washington and the Pacific Northwest. Our attorneys represent school districts, public entities, corporations, nonprofit organizations, religious institutions, and other clients in complex civil litigation matters. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional legal representation while fostering a collegial and supportive workplace.

Position Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

• Manage civil litigation matters from inception through resolution.
• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, discovery requests, and legal memoranda.
• Conduct legal research and prepare case analyses.
• Take and defend depositions.
• Participate in mediations, arbitrations, hearings, and trials.
• Develop litigation strategies in collaboration with partners and senior attorneys.
• Maintain direct client contact and provide practical legal counsel.
• Manage case deadlines and work effectively within a team environment.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in the Washington State Bar Association.
• 2-5 years of civil litigation experience.
• Strong legal writing, research, and analytical skills.
• Excellent oral advocacy and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Ability to independently manage cases while collaborating effectively with colleagues.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Experience

Experience in one or more of the following is a plus:

• Insurance defense
• Employment litigation
• Construction litigation
• Public entity representation
• General civil litigation

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $125,000 - $145,000 annually, depending on experience, qualifications, and demonstrated litigation experience. Performance-based bonus and billable hours bonus.

Benefits include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with firm contribution
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Professional dues and CLE reimbursement
• Bonus opportunities
• Hybrid work flexibility

Work Location

This position is based in our downtown Seattle or Tacoma offices, with opportunities to work alongside experienced litigators serving clients throughout Washington.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Writing Sample

Patterson Buchanan Fobes & Leitch is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace.