Associate Attorney

Job Description

Description:

Associate Attorney

Ready to argue, advocate, and make your mark in defense litigation?

Barnwell Whaley is growing — and we’re looking for a sharp, driven Associate Attorney to join our defense litigation team. If you’re the kind of lawyer who thrives in the courtroom, loves digging into a complex case, and wants a career — not just a job — this is where you belong. With a practice that spans commercial litigation, transportation, construction defect, and business liability, you’ll never have a dull day.

YOUR PRACTICE AREAS

Commercial Litigation

Transportation

Construction Defect

Business Liability

What You’ll Do

This isn’t a document-review purgatory position. From day one, you’ll be hands-on, running a full litigation caseload from the first review of facts all the way to verdict or resolution. Here’s a taste of what your days will look like:

Own your caseload — analyze facts, gather evidence, and craft winning case strategies from start to finish.

Draft compelling legal documents: complaints, answers, motions, briefs, and appellate arguments.

Command depositions, manage discovery, and keep the information flowing.

Step into the courtroom — opening statements, witness examinations, closing arguments, jury deliberations. The whole show.

Argue motions before the court and develop razor-sharp trial strategies.

Advise clients with clarity and confidence on legal options, risks, and strategy.

Negotiate settlements skillfully, and handle appeals when the fight continues.

Collaborate with paralegals and support staff to keep cases moving efficiently.

Partner with experienced partners and team members on complex litigation strategies tailored to each client.

Communicate proactively with clients and provide timely, meaningful reporting on case status.

Why Barnwell Whaley?

This is a firm where your work matters. You’ll work alongside experienced trial attorneys on substantive, challenging matters — not as a background player, but as a key member of the team. We offer:

Real courtroom experience and real responsibility from the start.

Diverse practice areas that will sharpen every dimension of your litigation skills.

A collegial, collaborative team culture where mentorship is genuine.

A firm with a strong reputation and deep roots in South Carolina’s legal community.

A long-term career path — we invest in people who want to grow with us.Requirements:

Who You Are

You’re not just checking boxes. You’re a lawyer who is equal parts thinker, writer, and advocate. Here’s what we’re looking for:

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.

Licensed and in good standing with the South Carolina State Bar.

3–5 years of litigation experience (defense experience is a major plus).

Analytical powerhouse — you can dissect complex legal issues and build airtight arguments.

A communicator who can articulate a compelling case in writing and in the courtroom.

Detail-obsessed: your pleadings are clean, your deadlines are never missed.

A research expert who knows how to find the right case law and make it work.

Creative problem-solver who finds angles others overlook.

A relationship builder — clients trust you, opposing counsel respects you.

Ready to Build Your Career in Defense Litigation? Send your resume, writing sample, and cover letter to join a team that’s serious about the law — and serious about your future.

Full-time