Associate Attorney - I

About the Role

SBS Law is hiring an Associate Attorney to join our active Litigation division, working directly alongside Chief Litigation Attorney Todd Stuart and other experienced attorneys. The division carries a diverse, high-volume docket spanning corporate litigation, general civil litigation, pre-litigation and demand work, business formation and general corporate matters, real estate, domestic relations, estate planning, and expungements. This is a hands-on litigation and transactional role for an attorney who wants broad courtroom and counseling experience early in their career.

What You'll Do

• Manage an active caseload across corporate litigation, general civil litigation, and pre-litigation matters, from intake through discovery, motion practice, and resolution.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, demand letters, and settlement agreements.
• Appear in Michigan state courts (circuit and district) for hearings, case evaluations, and mediations.
• Support transactional matters — business formation, entity governance, contract review and drafting, and real estate transactions.
• Assist with estate planning matters and, as needed, domestic relations and expungement proceedings.
• Communicate directly with clients, opposing counsel, and third parties, keeping matters moving and clients informed.
• Partner closely with Todd Stuart on strategy, staffing, and deadlines, and coordinate with paralegal support on filings and case administration.
• Maintain accurate, timely time entries, task and deadline logging, and matter notes in Clio.

What We're Looking For

• J.D. from an accredited law school and active license to practice in Michigan (or eligibility to waive in).
• 1–4 years of litigation experience; civil litigation or general practice background preferred. New admittees with strong clerkship or clinic experience are welcome to apply.
• Strong legal writing and research skills, with the ability to translate case law and statutes into practical positions.
• Comfort managing a varied, fast-moving docket rather than a single practice area — this division touches nearly every area of the firm except landlord-tenant and collections.
• Sound courtroom presence or a demonstrated willingness to develop one quickly.
• Organized, responsive, and comfortable working in Clio Manage and standard Microsoft/Google office tools.
• A team-first attitude — this role works in close daily coordination with Chief Litigation Attorney Todd Stuart and supporting paralegal staff.

Practice Areas You'll Touch

Corporate Litigation • General Civil • Pre-Litigation • Business Formation & Compliance • General Corporate Work • Real Estate • Securities / Mergers & Acquisitions • Contracts • Estate Planning • Domestic Relations • Expungements

Reporting & Team

Reports to Todd Stuart (Partner). Works day-to-day alongside a dedicated paralegal.

Location

Grand Rapids, Michigan — in-office, with court appearances across West Michigan as matters require.

Upon screening meet with the managing partner or human resources first, then meet with the Chief of Litigation attorney for final review.