DC Associate Attorney

About Us: Patterson Real Bird & Rasmussen LLP is a national law firm dedicated to advancing and protecting the rights of American Indian tribes and organizations. We represent clients in a wide range of matters, including business transactions, litigation, and governmental affairs before tribal, federal, and state courts.

We are a fast-paced, mission-driven firm with offices in Colorado, Washington, D.C., North Dakota, and New Mexico. Our DC office consists of a number of attorneys working from their home offices.

The Opportunity: We are seeking an Associate Attorney with a foundation in tribal and federal Indian law to join our team in Washington, D.C. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 3-5 years of experience, with a demonstrated ability to provide legal support, craft advocacy before Congress and federal agencies, and assist in tribal, federal, and state litigation. Additionally, the candidate will contribute to drafting key legal documents, including testimony, briefing papers, and strategic legal opinions. This role offers an excellent opportunity for growth and development in a collaborative and dynamic environment.

Related Experience: 

• Juris Doctorate degree from an ABA accredited law school;
• Status as an active member in good standing of D.C. bar or other state jurisdiction;
• Experience working with Indian tribes or tribal entities on a wide array of legal issues such as government affairs, housing, education, finance, gaming, litigation, energy, natural resources and taxation;
• Familiarity with tribal and federal Indian law;
• Excellent analytical, research, and writing abilities;
• Ability to work well independently and as a team in a fast-paced environment;
• Willingness and ability to travel frequently to attend client meetings and court or administrative hearings at locations throughout the United States; and
• Proven skills in effectively communicating with Tribal clients, and federal, state or tribal agency representatives. 

Duties and Responsibilities: (other duties may be assigned) 

• Provide counsel and legal services to new and existing clients as well as represent clients in a professional and expedient manner;
• Advocate on behalf of clients before Members of Congress and federal agencies;
• Develop strategies for resolving client issues in Congress and with agencies;
• Ability to track and research Congressional legislation and development of federal regulations;
• Draft and prepare testimony, briefing papers, and talking points for clients;
• Draft agreements and analyze legal documents; and 
• Comply with all court, state bar and office policies and procedures.
• Participate in business development functions (conferences, seminars, etc.) as requested to maintain and build client relationships and expand business opportunities;

 Your total compensation package will include a competitive salary, bonus potential, participation in the firm 401(K) retirement plan, and a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance programs.  Send your resume and cover letter, writing sample, professional references and law school transcripts (if graduated less than 5 years ago) to:  
Posting Contact Name:                   Stephanie Kroner, Firm Administrator 
Posting Contact Email:                    [email protected]
  
Work Location:                                 DC or surrounding area 
Application Materials Required:   Cover Letter, Resume/CV, Writing Examples 
Posting Date:                                    August 24, 2026 
Un-posting Date:                              Ongoing

Flexible work from home options available.