Litigation Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Counsel is seeking a talented Litigation Associate (3–7 years) to join a highly regarded Trial & Litigation Practice Group at a leading California law firm. This is an exciting opportunity to work on high-impact, complex litigation matters in a collaborative and mission-driven environment.

About the Practice

This practice group is widely recognized for handling complex, crisis-driven litigation across a range of cutting-edge areas, including:

• Constitutional law with social justice components
• Wildfire and disaster-related litigation
• COVID-19-related litigation
• Civil rights claims in the land use context
• First Amendment and takings claims
• Class action litigation
• Eminent domain matters involving major infrastructure projects (transit, stadiums, and public works)

Attorneys are actively involved in all phases of litigation , from initial pleadings through discovery, motion practice, trial, and appeal in both state and federal courts.

Position Overview

The firm is seeking an energetic, detail-oriented, and strategic litigator who thrives in complex legal environments. This role offers the opportunity to:

• Develop and execute litigation strategy in high-stakes matters
• Work closely with public entity clients
• Present sophisticated constitutional arguments in a clear and persuasive manner
• Collaborate with a highly respected litigation team

Key Responsibilities

• Manage complex litigation matters from inception through resolution
• Draft and argue motions, including dispositive motions
• Conduct and manage all phases of discovery, including e-discovery
• Develop case strategy and support trial preparation
• Handle law and motion practice in both state and federal courts
• Work directly with public entity clients, including cities, counties, and special districts
• Participate in trial and appellate work as needed

Qualifications

• 3–7 years of litigation experience
• Experience representing public entity clients required
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Government claims procedures
  • Constitutional and statutory defenses
  • Litigation involving municipalities and public agencies
• Demonstrated experience with:
  • Complex litigation management
  • Motion practice
  • Discovery (including e-discovery)
• Excellent legal writing, analytical, and advocacy skills
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment

Work Environment & Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule (remote flexibility + in-office collaboration)
• Competitive compensation and bonus structure
• Comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k) with partial match and profit sharing
  • Annual discretionary and billable hours bonuses

Compensation

• $185,000 – $245,000 base salary
• Compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, and location