Senior Associate Attorney - Litigation

Job Description

Job Description

La Follette, Johnson, DeHaas, Fesler & Ames is a statewide civil litigation firm with over 60 years of defense law excellence. Founded by John T. La Follette and Daren T. Johnson, the firm first began practicing law in Los Angeles in 1965, and specializes in medical malpractice, elder abuse, general liability, employment law and products liability. Since its inception, the firm has grown into one of California’s largest, most recognized and experienced defense law firms, with multiple offices throughout California.

At La Follette Johnson, we understand that exceptional Associates make the difference for our clients. We provide an environment in which our Associates enjoy unlimited earning potential, professional growth, the opportunity to work on meaningful and challenging matters with our clients, and excellent benefits.

Position Summary

The Senior Associate manages cases in the defense of physicians, hospitals and other healthcare providers. The incumbent will lead and execute comprehensive client relations and development, case strategy, client communication, and risk assessment while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and advocacy. The Senior Associate will manage their own caseload, while also collaborating closely with partners, mentoring Associates for development, and developing client relations to build client base.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned litigator, with proven experience effectively developing clients and representing them at trial.

Position Duties

• Manage a caseload of complex medical malpractice defense matters from inception through resolution, including pre-suit investigation, discovery, motion-practice, trial, and appeal.
• Represent physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare professionals in depositions, court hearings, trials, and other legal proceedings, providing sound legal advice to clients.
• Develop relationships with clients and potential clients, including insurance carriers, hospitals, physicians and others.
• Serve as first- or second-chair trial counsel, building persuasive trial themes, strategy, opening statements, witness examinations, and closing arguments.
• Lead trial preparation efforts, developing and executing comprehensive case strategies.
• Develop case evaluation and risk assessment strategies in coordination with clients and insurance carriers, positioning cases for favorable resolution.
• Appear and argue in contested hearings, case management conferences, and evidentiary motions with confidence and professionalism.
• Direct settlement negotiations and mediations from a position of trial readiness, leveraging litigation posture to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Provide strategic guidance to clients throughout the litigation process, including candid assessments of liability exposure, jury appeal, and trial risk.
• Retain, prepare, and strategically position witnesses, including medical experts, and conduct direct and cross-examinations at trial.
• Prepare and respond to discovery requests, including interrogatories and document production.
• Defend and take depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts.
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other legal documents.
• Maintain and update case files, ensuring all documentation is accurate and current.
• Maintain mastery of evolving medical malpractice law, standards, and procedural rules to ensure highly effective advocacy in court.
• Mentor junior associates in deposition strategy, motion practice, and courtroom presentation, fostering development of trial skills within the team.
• Work collaboratively with other attorneys, paralegals, and legal staff to ensure effective communication, excellent outcomes, and contribute to the firm’s culture.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements

• A minimum of ten (10) years of legal experience, preferably in civil defense.
• A minimum of five (5) years of litigation experience, preferably in medical malpractice.
• Must be licensed and in good standing with the State Bar of California.
• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Ability to work both independently and as a contributing member of our team.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, multitask, and meet deadlines, while maintaining attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks.
• Ability to maintain a professional attitude and demeanor.
• Ability to build and develop relationships with clients.

Benefits and Terms

• Associate Bonus Program with unlimited earning potential
• 401(k) with employer match
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

La Follette, Johnson, DeHaas, Fesler & Ames is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs in accordance with applicable laws.