Litigation Associate

Litigation Associate

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