Trial Lawyer in Training - Associate Attorney

Trial Lawyer in Training — Associate Attorney
Zinda Law Group | Austin, Texas
Most 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 Opportunity
As 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 Doing
Draft substantive motions, briefs, pleadings, and discovery
Conduct complex legal research that directly shapes trial strategy
Prepare cases for mediation and trial — every time, on every file
Work with experts on liability, damages, and medical issues
Participate in depositions, hearings, mediations, and trials
Progressively take ownership of depositions, motion arguments, and portions of trials
Maintain files in a trial-ready posture at all times
The Trial Lawyer in Training Program
Your 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.
Compensation
Component Range
Base Salary - $125,000 - $250,000
Performance Bonus - $25,000 - $100,000
Origination Bonus: Uncapped - get paid for generating cases
Total Compensation - $125,000 - $350,000
Benefits
20 days PTO + 10 paid holidays
Medical, vision, and dental (firm covers 100% of employee medical)
IRA with up to 3% company match
Paid parental leave
Who Thrives Here
This 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 work
Like being held to a high standard and given real feedback
Are competitive, analytical, and obsessive about preparation
Want a steep learning curve and meaningful responsibility early
Are coachable and serious about becoming excellent
This is not the role if you're looking for:
Predictable, low-pressure work
Minimal accountability
A slow or undefined career path
Qualifications
Licensed and in good standing with the Texas, Arizona, Colorado, or New Mexico State Bar
0–5 years of experience (litigation experience preferred)
Strong legal writing ability — motions, briefs, discovery, memos
Demonstrated analytical and research skills
Ambition and a relentless work ethic
Highly coachable with a low ego and high standards
Excellent organizational skills and ability to work with support staff
Knowledge of TRCP and Rules of Evidence preferred
Bilingual in Spanish is a plus
Why Lawyers Choose Zinda Law Group
We actually try cases
We invest heavily in training and mentorship
We give responsibility early — and back it up with support
We build careers, not just resumes
Advancement is merit-based and moves as fast as you do
If 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.

Employment type
Full Time

Work arrangement
No