Litigation Associate

COLLA & RAY LLP

Litigation Associate

San Francisco, California

About the Firm

If you're passionate about civil litigation and eager to build a versatile, high-impact practice, Colla & Ray LLP offers an environment where you can thrive. As a well-established San Francisco firm, we handle a rich and varied caseload — from construction defect and real estate disputes to employment matters, consumer protection, and post-judgment collection — giving you the opportunity to sharpen your skills across multiple areas of law. You'll work alongside experienced attorneys who are committed to skilled, attentive advocacy for every client. We're growing, and we're looking for a driven litigation attorney who's ready to make their mark.

About the Position

As a Litigation Associate at Colla & Ray LLP, you will take full ownership of a diverse civil litigation caseload spanning construction defect, real estate, employment, consumer protection, and business disputes. This is a hands-on, courtroom-forward role where you will develop case strategy, manage discovery, take and defend depositions, argue motions, and try cases — with meaningful responsibility from day one. We're looking for a self-directed attorney who is ready to hit the ground running, build lasting client relationships, and grow their career within a well-respected San Francisco firm that handles challenging, substantive work across a broad range of civil matters.

Qualifications

We are looking for a civil litigation attorney with 5+ years of experience who is prepared to manage a caseload independently from inception through resolution. Qualified candidates will have a strong command of case strategy, all phases of discovery — including taking and defending depositions — as well as motion practice and oral argument. Trial experience is highly valued, with first-chair or significant second-chair experience preferred. Above all, we are looking for a resourceful, self-motivated attorney with excellent written and verbal communication skills and a genuine commitment to responsive, client-centered advocacy. Experience in any of our core practice areas is welcome but not required. Must be an active member of the California State Bar.

• 5+ years of civil litigation experience — Candidates should have a meaningful, hands-on litigation background with experience handling civil matters through all stages of the litigation lifecycle, from initial case assessment through post-judgment proceedings.

• Demonstrated ability to manage a caseload independently — We are looking for an attorney who can take ownership of multiple active matters simultaneously, set priorities, meet deadlines, and move cases forward without requiring close supervision.

• Experience developing and executing case strategy — Qualified candidates will have experience analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of a case early on and translating that analysis into a cohesive litigation strategy that drives decision-making from pleadings through trial.

• Proficiency in all phases of discovery — Candidates should be well-versed in written discovery, document review and production, and ESI considerations, as well as experienced in taking and defending depositions of both fact and expert witnesses.

• Motion practice experience — Strong candidates will have a track record of drafting and arguing a variety of civil motions, including dispositive motions, discovery motions, and motions in limine, and should be comfortable presenting arguments before the court.

• Trial experience — First-chair trial experience is strongly preferred. Candidates with significant second-chair experience who have played an active role in trial preparation and courtroom proceedings will also be considered.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills — This role demands clear, persuasive legal writing and the ability to communicate complex legal issues effectively to clients, opposing counsel, and the court.

• Resourceful and self-motivated — We value attorneys who take initiative, think creatively when faced with challenges, and are proactive in identifying issues and solutions without waiting to be directed.

• Commitment to responsive, client-centered advocacy — Candidates should understand that excellent lawyering goes hand in hand with excellent client service, and should be dedicated to keeping clients informed, managing expectations, and delivering results with professionalism and care.

Compensation

We offer a base salary of $170,000 and up, based on experience, along with performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package.

How to Apply

We’d love to hear from you. Please submit your cover letter and resume to View email address on click.appcast.io, or apply directly at our Linkedin.