Law Enforcement Defense Attorney

Law Enforcement Defense AttorneyDirect Counsel is seeking a Law Enforcement Defense Attorney with 3–6 years of litigation experience to join a sophisticated and growing California litigation practice. This role offers the opportunity to represent law enforcement agencies and officers in complex, high-profile civil rights and constitutional litigation in both state and federal courts.The ideal candidate will have significant experience defending law enforcement agencies and a strong background in civil rights litigation, constitutional law, and law enforcement matters.Location: California – FirmwideMainly Remote - Must reside in California!ResponsibilitiesManage a caseload of complex civil litigation in California state and federal courts.Defend law enforcement agencies and officers in matters involving: Officer-involved shootingsExcessive force claimsFalse arrest allegationsCivil rights violationsConstitutional claimsHandle complex discovery issues in significant and high-profile litigation.Draft and argue motions and prepare appellate briefs, legal memoranda, and other substantive filings.Conduct and defend depositions.Participate in trial strategy, preparation, and support.Conduct sophisticated legal research involving constitutional and civil rights issues.Work closely with supervising partners while independently managing assigned matters.Communicate directly with law enforcement and public agency clients.Qualifications3–6 years of relevant litigation experience.Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar.Significant experience defending law enforcement agencies in civil rights litigation.Experience litigating matters in both state and federal courts.Strong knowledge of constitutional law, civil rights litigation, and law enforcement issues.Excellent legal research, writing, drafting, and analytical skills.Experience or demonstrated interest in depositions and trial advocacy.Ability to independently manage matters and communicate directly with clients.Strong work ethic and collaborative approach.Compensation & BenefitsBase Salary: $158,000–$205,000, depending on experience and qualifications.Annual performance-based bonuses.Discretionary and billable-hours bonus opportunities.Reasonable billable-hours requirement.Mainly remote work arrangement for California-based attorneys.Competitive health insurance benefits.401(k) with partial employer match.Strong opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and career advancement.Why This OpportunityThis position provides the opportunity to handle sophisticated and high-profile law enforcement defense matters involving significant civil rights and constitutional issues. Attorneys gain substantive responsibility across all stages of litigation, including complex discovery, depositions, motion practice, appellate work, and trial preparation, while working alongside experienced litigators.Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier legal employers and fostering inclusive hiring practices.