Careers

About Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm: Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is a full-service law firm with offices in Sioux Falls, SD, and Sioux City, IA. We are committed to delivering responsive, high-quality legal services across a wide range of practice areas. Our culture is built on collaboration, trust, and professionalism, and every member of our team plays an essential role in supporting our clients and each other.

Position Overview: We are seeking a seasoned and strategic Senior Civil Litigation Attorney to join our growing litigation team. The ideal candidate will bring 7+ years of substantive experience handling complex civil matters, including business disputes, employment litigation, contract disputes, construction claims, and related issues. This attorney will serve as a key leader within the litigation group, providing high-level representation to clients and contributing to the firm’s overall litigation strategy and growth.

This role requires demonstrated skill in navigating all phases of litigation including pleadings, discovery, motion practice, mediation, trial, and appeal with the judgment and autonomy expected of a senior practitioner. Candidates must be licensed in one or more of the following states: South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska; and ideally eligible to become licensed in the others.

While candidates with an established practice are preferred, this position is also well-suited for high-performing litigators looking to grow their practice within a modern, entrepreneurial firm. Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm attorneys are licensed across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming and serve clients across the U.S. and internationally.

Responsibilities:

• Lead Case Strategy & Management
  • Oversee and execute all aspects of civil litigation with minimal supervision, including development of case strategy, drafting and responding to pleadings, conducting and managing discovery, and representing clients in hearings, depositions, ediations and trials. Provide creative and practical solutions grounded in strong judgment.
• Advanced Legal Research & Writing
  • Produce high-quality briefs, motions, memoranda, an appellate filings. Translate complex legal issues into clear and compelling arguments.
• Client Relationship Leadership
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, deliver responsive, clear, and proactive communication. Strengthen existing client relationships and support long-term client retention.
• Mentorship & Team Collaboration
  • Collaborate with associate attorneys, paralegals, and support staff; provide guidance, oversight, and informal mentorship to junior team members as needed. Contribute positively to a hybrid/remote team environment.
• Business Development & Practice Growth
  • Participate in networking and business-development activities; help growth the litigation practice by identifying opportunities, strengthening referral relationships, and developing a personal book of business over time.
• Professional Development & Legal Awareness
  • Stay current on relevant legal developments procedural changes, and statewide and regional trends affecting client matters and litigation strategies.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Minimum 7 years of civil litigation experience, including meaningful trial, deposition, and courtroom experience.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage a diverse litigation caseload from intake through resolution.
• Exceptional legal writing, analytical, and research skills.
• Strong professional judgment, time management, and communication skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a willingness to engage in business development.
• Active admission in to one of these states and ideally the ability to obtain licensure in the others: Iowa, South Dakota and Nebraska.

Attitude, Energy, and Effort:

• Approach client matters and internal responsibilities with professionalism, sound judgment, and the steadiness expected of a senior practitioner.
• Bring pride, precision, and strategic thought to your work, recognizing the impact a senior litigator has on case outcomes, client trust, and the firm’s broader reputation.
• Maintain focused, reliable energy in fast-moving matters; anticipate next steps, identify risks early, and drive progress without the need for oversight.
• Demonstrate respect for colleagues and clients through clear communication, thoughtful coordination, and consistent, high-quality work product.
• Engage in feedback and continuous improvement with maturity and accountability, modeling a solutions-oriented approach for others on the team.
• Uphold confidentiality, discretion, and professionalism in all interactions, especially when navigating complex, sensitive, or high-stakes matters.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Unlimited PTO.
• 13 paid holidays.
• 100% firm-paid health insurance.
• 100% firm-paid vision insurance.
• Monthly technology stipend with firm-provided remote technology solutions.
• Bonus eligibility based on performance.
• Competitive 401(k) and profit sharing.
• Paid continuing education or skills-development opportunities.
• Collaborative and positive work environment.

How to Apply: If you are a motivated, detail-oriented, and client-focused professional with a commitment to excellence, we invite you to apply for the Senior Attorney position at Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm. Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to Miranda Basye at mirandab@halbachlawfirm.com and Alex Halbach at alexh@halbachlawfirm.com.

Halbach|Szwarc Law Firm is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Position Overview: We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Estate Planning Administrative Coordinator to support our growing estate planning practice. This individual will assist with client communication and coordination, document preparation, proofreading, matter organization, and administrative tasks that ensure estate planning and probate matters move efficiently. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a hybrid work environment.

Responsibilities:

• Client Service & Intake
  • Assist with intake workflows, including conflict checks, intake forms, scheduling, and gathering necessary information.
  • Field general client questions regarding scheduling, next steps, document needs, and signing procedures.
  • Communicate regularly with clients to collect outstanding items and provide updates.
  • Coordinate attorney and paralegal meetings, signing appointments, and follow-up calls.
• Document Preparation & Proofreading
  • Assist with preparing estate planning documents by organizing drafts, managing templates, and assembling final packets.
  • Proofread documents, correspondence, and client-facing materials for accuracy, grammar, formatting, and consistency.
  • Prepare signing folders, witness pages, and notary materials for in-office and remote signings.
  • Review documents for correct names, dates, signature blocks, and required attachments.
• Matter Management & File Organization
  • Create, maintain, and organize digital matter files in Clio with consistent structure and naming.
  • Save, label, and organize incoming documents—including scanned mail, emails, and client uploads—into the correct matter folders.
  • Track internal deadlines and maintain awareness of the progress of active estate planning and probate matters.
  • Provide early-stage support for probate and trust administration by organizing documents and preparing materials for review.
• Administrative Coordination
  • Assist with scheduling needs across the estate planning team to support an efficient workflow.
  • Collaborate with the Office Coordinator on mail workflows: the Office Coordinator receives and scans mail, and the Estate Planning Administrative Coordinator saves and routes estate planning-related documents in Clio.
  • Coordinate with external parties such as notaries, couriers, county offices, and financial institutions when needed.
  • Prepare and send engagement letters, fee agreements, and closing letters for attorney review.
• General Team Support
  • Assist attorneys and paralegals with routine follow-up tasks, administrative needs, and communication.
  • Support updates to templates, checklists, and workflows as the estate planning practice continues to grow.
  • Assist with preparing materials for client meetings, seminars, and other events as needed.

Qualifications:

• Prior administrative, client service, or professional office experience required; experience in a legal, financial, or professional services environment preferred.
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including proofreading ability.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and follow established processes accurately.
• Comfort handling confidential and sensitive information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with Clio or similar software preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a hybrid environment.
• Access to reliable transportation for occasional errands or document delivery.

Attitude, Energy, and Effort:

• Approach all responsibilities with professionalism, integrity, and pride in the details.
• Value the importance of this role, recognizing that the accuracy of administrative tasks is foundational to client trust and firm success.
• Bring steady, reliable energy to both routine and unexpected tasks; follow through without repeated reminders.
• Demonstrate respect for colleagues, clients, and the role itself through timely, thoughtful communication and consistent effort.
• Remain open to feedback and apply it constructively, showing professional maturity and a solutions-oriented mindset

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Unlimited PTO.
• 13 paid holidays.
• 100% firm-paid health insurance.
• 100% firm-paid vision insurance.
• Monthly technology stipend with firm-provided remote technology solutions.
• Bonus eligibility based on performance.
• Competitive 401(k) and profit sharing.
• Paid continuing education or skills-development opportunities.
• Collaborative and positive work environment.

Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced and highly organized Executive Legal Assistant / Paralegal to provide direct support to firm Partner, Alex Halbach, and the associate attorneys who work with him across a diverse, fast-paced practice including both business and civil litigation. This position focuses on high-level paralegal and administrative support including: managing documents, organizing matters, coordinating workflow, preparing motions, affidavits and court filings, business formations and transactional materials, communicating with clients on routine matters, maintaining deadlines, and helping ensure smooth day-to-day operations.

This role is ideal for someone who is proactive, detail-oriented, comfortable managing multiple projects, and skilled at supporting attorneys with varied practice needs and experience.

Responsibilities:

• Document Preparation & Administrative Drafting
  • Draft and revise routine legal documents such as:
    • corporate filings
    • real estate forms and closing documents
    • standard agreements and contract templates
    • discovery requests, discovery responses, and initial drafts of pleadings prepared under attorney direction and supervision.
    • motions, affidavits and other basic pleadings under attorney direction and supervision.
  • Proofread documents and correspondence for accuracy and consistency.
• Matter Organization & Workflow Coordination
  • Maintain organized digital files, ensure all documents, notes, and communications are uploaded and labeled correctly.
  • Track deadlines, court dates, internal action items, and closing calendars.
  • Coordinate logistics for meetings, hearings, closings, and client appointments with attorneys and support staff.
  • Prepare binders, exhibits, closing packets, and organized working files for attorneys.
• Client Communication
  • Communicate with clients regarding:
    • gathering necessary information
    • status updates
    • scheduling matters
    • clarifying procedural steps or document needs
  • Manage routine client inquiries and escalate substantive legal questions to the appropriate attorney.
  • Support attorneys in preparing clients for meetings, hearings, or closings.
• Filings & Administrative Processing
  • Assist with preparing and filing documents with state and federal courts, agencies, and regulatory bodies in compliance with rules and deadlines.
  • File corporate documents, annual reports, and business compliance materials with relevant agencies.
  • Submit IP, employment, or regulatory filings as directed by attorneys.
• Support for Partner’s Calendar & Daily Workflow
  • Coordinate and organize attorney Halbach’s calendar as it relates to litigation deadlines, transactional closings, client meetings, and internal planning and coordination.
  • Prepare materials ahead of meetings and monitor upcoming deadlines.
  • Assist in keeping matters moving between attorney Halbach and the associates by ensuring action items are documented and followed through.
• Research & General Paralegal Support
  • Conduct limited procedural, factual, or organizational research under attorney supervision.
  • Support associate attorneys with administrative case needs and material preparation.
  • Collaborate with paralegals across the firm to maintain consistent workflows and share best practices.

Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree, or a Paralegal Certificate from an ABA-approved program.
• 4+ years of paralegal experience, preferably with exposure to multiple practice areas such as business, real estate, civil litigation, or employment.
• Strong drafting, proofreading, and document management skills.
• Experience supporting attorneys with scheduling, organization, and workflow coordination.
• Excellent communication and client-service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and operate effectively in a hybrid environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with Clio or similar tools preferred.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with attorneys, associates, and staff.

Attitude, Energy, and Effort:

• Approach all responsibilities with professionalism and sound judgment, recognizing the importance of supporting a partner’s active and varied practice.
• Bring pride and precision to every task, knowing that accuracy and organization directly influence client experience and attorney efficiency.
• Maintain steady and reliable energy in fast-paced workflows, anticipate needs, and follow through without repeated reminders.
• Demonstrate respect for colleagues, clients, and the attorney team through timely communication, thoughtful coordination, and consistent high-quality work.
• Stay open to feedback and commit to continuous improvement, responding with maturity, accountability, and a solutions-focused mindset.
• Uphold confidentiality, discretion, and professionalism in all interactions, especially when handling sensitive information or competing priorities.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Unlimited PTO.
• 13 paid holidays.
• 100% firm-paid health insurance.
• 100% firm-paid vision insurance.
• Monthly technology stipend with firm-provided remote technology solutions.
• Bonus eligibility based on performance.
• Competitive 401(k) and profit sharing.
• Paid continuing education or skills-development opportunities.
• Collaborative and positive work environment.

Position Overview: We are currently seeking a skilled and dedicated criminal defense attorney to join our criminal defense practice group. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of experience handling criminal cases at the state and federal levels, including misdemeanor and felony cases. This individual will play a key role in advocating for clients' rights and achieving favorable outcomes, whether through negotiation, litigation, or trial and will play a key role in developing and implementing our criminal defense practice strategy.

Applicants must be licensed in Iowa and able to obtain licensure in South Dakota and Nebraska. While candidates with an established client base are encouraged to apply, a willingness to develop business and foster new client relationships is equally important. Halbach|Szwarc attorneys are licensed across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming and serve clients across the U.S. and internationally.

Responsibilities:

• Lead client representation in criminal matters at the state and federal levels, including misdemeanors and felonies, from initial consultation through resolution.
• Manage all phases of a case, including investigation, pretrial motions, discovery, plea negotiations, and trial preparation.
• Appear in court on behalf of clients for arraignments, hearings, trials, and sentencing, delivering strong and strategic advocacy.
• Draft and review legal documents, including motions, briefs, memoranda, and correspondence with clarity, precision, and persuasive legal reasoning.
• Maintain consistent and clear client communication, providing education, guidance, and reassurance throughout each step of the legal process.
• Contribute to practice development, including building client relationships, expanding referral networks, and supporting the firm’s long-term growth strategy.
• Collaborate closely with team members, including attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, in a hybrid environment that values flexibility and shared ownership.
• Stay informed on developments in criminal law and procedure, applying emerging trends and case law to strengthen client strategy and outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• 3+ years of experience in criminal defense, including trial experience.
• High level of professionalism, empathy, and discretion.
• Excellent courtroom advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage multiple matters, and meet deadlines effectively in a hybrid work environment.
• Willingness to engage in business development activities and foster client relationships.
  
  

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Unlimited PTO.
• 13 paid holidays.
• 100% firm paid health insurance.
• 100% firm paid vision insurance.
• Monthly technology stipend with firm provided remote technology solutions.
• Bonus eligibility based upon performance.
• Competitive 401(k) and profit sharing.
• Paid continuing education expenses.
• Collaborative and positive work environment.

Position Overview: We are currently seeking a skilled and dedicated criminal defense attorney to join our criminal defense practice group. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of experience handling criminal cases at the state and federal levels, including misdemeanor and felony cases. This individual will play a key role in advocating for clients' rights and achieving favorable outcomes, whether through negotiation, litigation, or trial and will play a key role in developing and implementing our criminal defense practice strategy.

Applicants must be licensed in South Dakota and able to obtain licensure in Iowa and Nebraska. While candidates with an established client base are encouraged to apply, a willingness to develop business and foster new client relationships is equally important. Halbach|Szwarc attorneys are licensed across South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming and serve clients across the U.S. and internationally.

Responsibilities:

• Lead client representation in criminal matters at the state and federal levels, including misdemeanors and felonies, from initial consultation through resolution.
• Manage all phases of a case, including investigation, pretrial motions, discovery, plea negotiations, and trial preparation.
• Appear in court on behalf of clients for arraignments, hearings, trials, and sentencing, delivering strong and strategic advocacy.
• Draft and review legal documents, including motions, briefs, memoranda, and correspondence with clarity, precision, and persuasive legal reasoning.
• Maintain consistent and clear client communication, providing education, guidance, and reassurance throughout each step of the legal process.
• Contribute to practice development, including building client relationships, expanding referral networks, and supporting the firm’s long-term growth strategy.
• Collaborate closely with team members, including attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, in a hybrid environment that values flexibility and shared ownership.
• Stay informed on developments in criminal law and procedure, applying emerging trends and case law to strengthen client strategy and outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• 3+ years of experience in criminal defense, including trial experience.
• High level of professionalism, empathy, and discretion.
• Excellent courtroom advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage multiple matters, and meet deadlines effectively in a hybrid work environment.
• Willingness to engage in business development activities and foster client relationships.
  
  

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Unlimited PTO.
• 13 paid holidays.
• 100% firm paid health insurance.
• 100% firm paid vision insurance.
• Monthly technology stipend with firm provided remote technology solutions.
• Bonus eligibility based upon performance.
• Competitive 401(k) and profit sharing.
• Paid continuing education expenses.
• Collaborative and positive work environment.