Careers - Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP

Swanson, Martin & Bell, LLP is always looking to hire talented, motivated, and responsible individuals to provide high-quality legal services. We strive to maintain a collegial atmosphere with an emphasis on problem-solving and efficiency.

Whether you are an experienced attorney, a skilled support staff member, or a law student eager to learn and grow, we invite you to explore the opportunities available at our firm. For more information on how you can become part of our dynamic team, please refer to the Attorneys, Staff, and Summer Associates Program sections.

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Join SMB Team

The attorneys who thrive at SMB are those who make a personal commitment to their own professional growth and whose values align with ours: a strong work ethic, dedication to excellence, and pride in the craft of lawyering.

We value talent, drive, and integrity—and we foster an environment where those willing to invest in themselves are given every opportunity to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact on the firm’s continued success. We believe that excellence in lawyering begins with exceptional people. That’s why we are committed to recruiting, developing, and retaining top legal talent from a wide range of backgrounds. We view diversity not only as a core value but as a strategic asset that enriches our professional environment, drives innovation, and enhances the quality of service we deliver to our clients. By fostering an inclusive culture that values different perspectives and experiences, we build stronger teams and deliver superior legal outcomes. SMB is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. To learn more, please visit our Diversity section.

Attorneys

Founded in 1992 by nine attorneys eager to make their mark, SMB has grown into a litigation powerhouse, now 140 attorneys strong with over 100 staff across seven offices in four states – and we are just getting started.

SMB’s expansion reflects our relentless pursuit of excellence and adaptability in a constantly evolving legal landscape. With clients across the country, we’re known for delivering top-tier results with a personal touch. We attract and retain those who thrive on challenge, demand the highest standards, and are driven to be the best.

Lateral Associates

We are always looking for talented lateral attorneys to join our dynamic, fast-paced, and growing litigation firm. We strive to provide the right fit for your evolving practice, offering an energetic and collegial work environment along with regular training to support your professional growth. Candidates must have an excellent academic record, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a strong work ethic.

Lateral Partners

SMB actively recruits lateral partners, welcoming experienced attorneys who bring diverse expertise and strengthen the firm’s practice areas. The firm is known for its fair and supportive treatment of senior-level attorneys, fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment for all.

Staff

The staff at SMB is known for their exceptional efficiency and outstanding problem-solving abilities.

Each team member contributes a unique set of skills, working collaboratively to address complex legal challenges with precision and expertise. Secretaries, paralegals, and other support personnel are encouraged to share innovative ideas, expand their skill sets, and work together to support our attorneys in delivering high-quality legal services.

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Summer Associates

The Summer Associate Program at SMB offers comprehensive training and mentorship to some of the legal profession’s most promising future trial lawyers.

Since 2003, we have welcomed summer associates into an environment that promotes collegiality, integrity, and exceptional advocacy. Our program is designed to allow the summer associates to explore different practice areas, interact with associates and partners in a collaborative environment, attend hearings and depositions, and further develop their skills in advance of a career in law.

How the Program Works

Each fall, we invite top second-year law students to join our 10-week Summer Associate Program at our offices in Chicago and St. Louis. Candidates undergo a rigorous and highly selective interview process, with selection based on outstanding scholarship, strong character, proven leadership and interpersonal skills, and a demonstrated commitment to developing advocacy and trial expertise.

In addition, the program plans a series of social events around the city to allow the Summer Associates an opportunity to get to know the culture of SMB outside of the office. For additional information, please email Troy M. Sphar at tsphar@smbtrials.com.

Gain Valuable Experience

Conducting legal and medical research
Drafting various types of documents, including motions, memoranda of law, correspondence, motions in limine, jury instructions, reports, case evaluations, and articles
Interacting with clients and opposing counsel
Appearing in state and federal court proceedings
Assisting with and attending depositions
Preparing for, participating in, and observing ongoing trials

Apply to summer associates program