Workers' Compensation Litigation Associate

Salary range: $125K - $175K

Location: Los Angeles, CA, Inland Empire, CA, Costa Mesa, CA, San Francisco, CA

About this role

We need a California-barred attorney with 1-8 years of direct workers' compensation experience (defense or applicant-side) who can manage a diverse caseload defending employers, insurers, and third-party administrators. You should be comfortable engaging in all phases of litigation-from case evaluation and discovery to WCAB hearings-and have a track record of strong legal research, writing, and client communication. Bonus points if you have deposition experience and WCAB hearing or trial exposure.

What you'll do:

• Manage a diverse caseload of workers' compensation defense matters representing employers, insurance carriers, and TPAs against workplace injury claims
• Engage in all phases of litigation from case evaluation and discovery through Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) hearings
• Work closely with lead attorneys and partners daily in a collaborative, team-based environment
• Defend against 132a discrimination claims, serious and willful misconduct charges, and combat applicant/lien/vendor fraud
• Proactively manage client communications throughout the course of litigation
• Take and defend depositions, with increasing autonomy as experience grows
• Leverage Manning Kass University training modules and mentorship program to develop expertise across workers' comp and potentially adjacent practice areas over time

Key details:

• This role operates on an 11-hour billable day (vs. the firm's standard 8-hour day for other practice areas)
• Hybrid work environment with remote flexibility several days per week (fluctuates with court schedule and caseload)
• Every new attorney receives a dedicated mentor ("MK buddy") and trainer, plus access to Manning Kass University
• Clear partner-track path with opportunity to expand into additional practice areas over time

Role responsibilities
• Strong analytical skills
• Active membership in the California State Bar
• Work independently and as part of a team
• Strong legal research and writing skills
• Manage communications with clients throughout litigation