Commercial Litigation Associate | 3–5 Years

Desa Law is growing.

We are a Toronto litigation boutique looking for a talented Commercial Litigation Associate with approximately 3–5 years of post-call Ontario litigation experience to join our team.

We have a busy and growing practice with an established pipeline of work. A book of business is not required. We are looking for a strong litigator who wants meaningful responsibility for files, direct client exposure, and the opportunity to grow with the firm.

The Role

You will work closely with the firm's principal while taking increasing ownership of your own matters.

Our practice includes commercial and civil disputes involving contracts, shareholders and business relationships, property and real estate, fraud and misrepresentation, professional issues, and other complex civil matters.

Your responsibilities will include

- Managing litigation files and contributing to case strategy
- Working directly with clients and opposing counsel
- Drafting pleadings, motions and other written advocacy
- Conducting discoveries and participating in motions, mediations and other proceedings
- Researching and analyzing complex legal and factual issues
- Negotiating practical resolutions where appropriate
- Managing multiple matters, deadlines and client expectations
- Taking increasing responsibility for matters from beginning to resolution

We value lawyers who exercise sound judgment, work efficiently, and understand when a practical solution is more valuable to a client than additional hours of work.



Who We're Looking For The ideal candidate will have:

- Approximately 3–5 years of post-call litigation experience in Ontario
- Membership in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario
- Strong hands-on experience with Ontario litigation practice and procedure
- Experience taking meaningful responsibility for files
- Strong drafting, research, negotiation and advocacy skills
- Sound judgment and a practical approach to resolving disputes
- The ability to independently manage multiple active matters and deadlines
- Strong client communication skills
- An efficient approach to legal work, with an understanding of proportionality and client budgets
- A collaborative approach and desire to be part of a growing firm

Direct commercial litigation experience is preferred, but not essential. We are also interested in strong litigators from insurance defence, personal injury and other civil litigation practices who have developed substantial advocacy and file-management experience and are interested in transitioning into a broader commercial litigation practice.

What We Offer

- Base salary of $140,000–$175,000, depending on experience and qualifications
- Performance bonus chance




- Annual billable target of approximately 1,450 hours
- Hybrid work arrangement: approximately 2 days in office / 3 days remote
- Extended health and dental benefits
- An established pipeline of interesting litigation work
- Direct client contact and meaningful file ownership
- Law Society and professional fees
- Continuing professional development support
- Opportunities to participate in client development and the growth of the firm
- Increasing responsibility and career opportunities as Desa Law grows

Why Desa Law? We are building a litigation firm around excellent advocacy, practical judgment, efficiency and client service.

This is an opportunity for a lawyer who wants more than simply completing assignments. You will have the opportunity to take ownership of matters, develop direct client relationships, work closely with an experienced commercial litigator, and play a meaningful role in the continued growth of the firm.

If you are an experienced Ontario litigator looking for more responsibility, flexibility and room to grow, we would like to hear from you.

All applications and inquiries will be treated confidentially.

Please submit your résumé along with a brief note outlining your litigation experience and interest in the opportunity.

Pay: $140,000.00-$175,000.00 per year

Benefits

- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Disability insurance
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision care
- Work from home

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Toronto, ON M8X 1B1

📌 Commercial Litigation Associate (3–5 Years) (Toronto)
🏢 Desa Law
📍 Toronto