Associate Attorney

Role Overview

• Draft and review pleadings, motions, and other litigation-related documents in product liability or complex litigation matters.
• Prepare, analyze, and respond to written discovery and manage discovery exchanged with multiple parties.
• Develop case strategies, defenses, and trial themes with increasing autonomy, supported by mentorship and collaboration.
• Research and analyze state and federal case law, statutes, and regulatory frameworks applicable to complex litigation matters.
• Interview, prepare, and work with fact witnesses, expert witnesses, and corporate representatives for testimony in litigation and regulatory proceedings.
• Take and defend depositions of lay witnesses, experts, and corporate representatives.
• Argue motions and participate in court appearances under appropriate supervision.
• Draft pretrial reports and assist with case evaluations, exposure analysis, and risk assessments.
• Participate in mediations, settlement conferences, status conferences, and hearings.
• Contribute to creative problem-solving and strategic planning for case resolution.
• Assist with settlement negotiations with plaintiffs and opposing counsel.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships through professional, responsive, and inclusive oral and written communication.
• Collaborate with and help supervise paralegals and litigation support staff.
• Support Shareholders, Partners, and Senior Counsel on complex litigation matters.
• Meet annual billable hour expectations and comply with firm timekeeping policies.
• Participate in business development, networking, and client-facing opportunities consistent with interest and experience.
• Engage in bar associations, professional organizations, and community involvement that support inclusion and professional growth.
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplace and contribute positively to firm culture.
• Additional responsibilities as requested by Management.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to practice in California required; Additional licenses a plus.
• 0–3 years of litigation experience, preferably in product liability, toxic tort, environmental, insurance defense, construction, or complex civil litigation.
• Prior paralegal, judicial clerkships, internships, clinics, or externships experience will be considered.
• Experience in a billable-hour law firm environment preferred.
• Demonstrated interest in complex litigation and willingness to develop subject-matter expertise.
• Strong client-service orientation with the ability to communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with diverse clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
• Self-motivated, organized, and capable of managing multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and with individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure while maintaining professionalism.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with FileVine or other document management systems is a plus.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development, mentorship, and inclusive excellence.

Benefits

• comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance
• life and disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings
• paid time off and holidays