Trial Lawyer in Training - Associate Attorney

Trial Lawyer In Training — Associate AttorneyZinda Law Group | Austin, TexasMost 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 OpportunityAs 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 DoingDraft substantive motions, briefs, pleadings, and discoveryConduct complex legal research that directly shapes trial strategyPrepare cases for mediation and trial — every time, on every fileWork with experts on liability, damages, and medical issuesParticipate in depositions, hearings, mediations, and trialsProgressively take ownership of depositions, motion arguments, and portions of trialsMaintain files in a trial-ready posture at all timesThe Trial Lawyer In Training ProgramYour 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.CompensationComponent RangeBase Salary - $125,000 - $250,000Performance Bonus - $25,000 - $100,000Origination Bonus: Uncapped - get paid for generating casesTotal Compensation - $125,000 - $350,000Benefits20 days PTO + 10 paid holidaysMedical, vision, and dental (firm covers 100% of employee medical)IRA with up to 3% company matchPaid parental leaveWho Thrives HereThis 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 workLike being held to a high standard and given real feedbackAre competitive, analytical, and obsessive about preparationWant a steep learning curve and meaningful responsibility earlyAre coachable and serious about becoming excellentThis is not the role if you're looking for:Predictable, low-pressure workMinimal accountabilityA slow or undefined career pathQualificationsLicensed and in good standing with the Texas, Arizona, Colorado, or New Mexico State Bar0–5 years of experience (litigation experience preferred)Strong legal writing ability — motions, briefs, discovery, memosDemonstrated analytical and research skillsAmbition and a relentless work ethicHighly coachable with a low ego and high standardsExcellent organizational skills and ability to work with support staffKnowledge of TRCP and Rules of Evidence preferredBilingual in Spanish is a plusWhy Lawyers Choose Zinda Law GroupWe actually try casesWe invest heavily in training and mentorshipWe give responsibility early — and back it up with supportWe build careers, not just resumesAdvancement is merit-based and moves as fast as you doIf 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.