Litigation Associate Attorney (4-6 Years) (San Diego)

Van Dyke & Associates, APLC is a boutique trust, probate, and estate litigation firm in San Diego. Since 1998, we have represented beneficiaries, trustees, and families in contested fiduciary matters in California Superior Court and the Courts of Appeal. We are hiring an experienced litigation associate (4-6 years of experience) to take a lead role on complex trust and estate disputes.

This is a senior associate role with substantial autonomy, direct client relationships, and the opportunity to run matters from pleadings through trial and appeal within a focused, high-caliber practice.

Responsibilities:

Manage trust, probate, and fiduciary litigation matters from inception through resolution.

Take and defend depositions, argue motions, and take a lead or second-chair role at trial.

Develop case strategy and provide day-to-day direction on active matters.

Draft and finalize dispositive motions, trial briefs, and appellate submissions.

Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, opposing counsel, and the court.

Mentor and review the work of junior associates.

Qualifications:

4-6 years of civil litigation experience, with substantial trust, probate, or estate litigation experience strongly preferred.

Active membership in the State Bar of California and in good standing.

Demonstrated first- or second-chair trial and deposition experience.

Exceptional legal writing, research, and oral advocacy skills.

Sound judgment, initiative, and the ability to manage a demanding docket with minimal supervision.

Compensation: $150,000 - $190,000 per year, commensurate with experience, plus benefits.

Location: On-site in San Diego, California.