Associate (Litigation)

Salary Range: $100,000.00 To $150,000.00 Annually Gerber Ciano Kelly Brady LLP is seeking an associate attorney with 8+ years of litigation experience to support the firm's defense practice in Buffalo and across New York State. This position offers an opportunity for a skilled litigator to take on a meaningful role handling complex matters in a collaborative, forward-thinking law firm environment. The ideal candidate will have substantial experience or an interest in defense litigation, including areas such as insurance defense, labor law, municipal liability, premises liability, trucking, product liability, professional liability, motor vehicle accidents, general liability, or insurance coverage, though experience in all areas is not required. This role requires initiative, sound judgment, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Candidates with an interest in travel and the ability to handle matters both within and outside the Western New York area — including downstate New York — are strongly encouraged to apply. Although the position will be based in the Buffalo office, remote options are available. Essential duties and Responsibilities: Handling all phases of New York defense litigation, including discovery, motion practice, and trial preparation Drafting and responding to discovery demands and objections, and following up with opposing counsel to ensure timely compliance Drafting correspondence to the court in connection with discovery conferences and related proceedings• Preparing motions to compel and supporting papers as needed Drafting and responding to motions for summary judgment Conducting legal research and preparing comprehensive reports and legal analyses Participating in court conferences, depositions, hearings, and trial proceedings as appropriate Managing case strategy and deadlines while ensuring compliance with client and carrier guidelines Maintaining accurate time records and billing entries Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities): 8+ years of litigation experience, preferably in a law firm setting Experience in defense litigation, ideally involving areas such as insurance defense, municipal liability, trucking, product liability, professional liability, premises liability, labor law, motor vehicle accidents, general liability, or insurance coverage Admission to practice in New York Strong legal writing, research, and analytical skills Strong communication skills, professionalism, and a demonstrated work ethic Ability to manage multiple matters and meet deadlines consistently Interest in handling matters both within and outside the Western New York area, including downstate New York, is a plus Trial experience is a plus Why Gerber Ciano Kelly Brady LLP At Gerber Ciano Kelly Brady, we're building something different. We believe in a new legal services model — one unrestrained by the traditional billable hour and driven instead by exceptional client service, innovative technology, creativity, efficiency, and unparalleled value. Our mission is to create a community of legal service providers who are passionate about what they do and committed to doing it better. We approach our work through teamwork, continuous process improvement, alternative service models, and cutting-edge technology. While professional licensing requires us to be a law firm, nothing says we have to act like one. Our team is composed of diverse individuals from a wide range of socio-economic, cultural, geographic, and educational backgrounds — and we believe that diversity of perspective is one of our greatest strengths. Our Values We put our people first and communicate openly. We share goals, success, and accountability — no individual agendas. We treat everyone with respect and humility. We maximize every opportunity, embrace change, and always look for yes. We nurture creativity, growth, and a little weirdness — because a great team is also a great community. Professional Growth & Career Development We are deeply committed to the growth and development of every member of our team. At GCKB, professional development isn't a perk — it's a priority. We invest in our people through ongoing learning opportunities, mentorship, and a culture that actively supports each team member in pursuing their individual career goals. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise, expand your skill set, or grow into new responsibilities, we want to help you get there. We believe that when our people thrive, our clients and our firm thrive alongside them. In areas involving litigation, we are a trial firm. As a result, we are committed to and invest in training the next generation of trial lawyers. Compensation and Benefits Compensation is commensurate with experience and skill set, and comes with a comprehensive benefits package including health, life, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 401(k) (with generous vested match), flexible work options, and paid time off.