Civil Litigator

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Civil Litigator to join a respected municipal law practice serving public-sector clients in Irvine, California. This contract opportunity with potential for a permanent role is ideal for an attorney who thrives in both courtroom advocacy and case strategy, with work spanning municipal prosecution and civil enforcement matters that affect local communities. The role offers a varied practice representing government entities in proceedings tied to compliance, public safety, land use, housing standards, and related disputes.

Responsibilities:
• Evaluate investigative materials and enforcement documentation to determine appropriate legal action for municipal matters.
• Prepare complaints, motions, briefs, pleadings, and other case filings for criminal code enforcement and civil litigation proceedings.
• Advocate for municipal clients during arraignments, hearings, motion arguments, settlement discussions, trials, sentencing matters, and post-judgment proceedings.
• Manage civil enforcement and litigation cases involving nuisance issues, zoning conflicts, building and housing standards, receiverships, and other public-agency disputes.
• Partner with city staff, code enforcement teams, and law enforcement personnel to support case development and legal strategy.
• Conduct legal research and translate findings into practical recommendations that help public agencies reduce exposure and strengthen enforcement efforts.
• Oversee matters from initial assessment through resolution while maintaining deadlines, court appearances, and case priorities across multiple assignments.
• Attend proceedings, depositions, and negotiations throughout Southern California in support of municipal and government clients.• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• Active California Bar membership in good standing.
• At least 3 years of litigation experience, ideally within municipal, civil, criminal, administrative, or government-related law.
• Demonstrated ability to draft motions, briefs, pleadings, and discovery materials with strong analytical precision.
• Strong courtroom presence, oral advocacy skills, and the ability to represent clients effectively in contested proceedings.
• Solid organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple cases and deadlines independently.
• Valid California driver’s license or reliable ability to travel for court appearances across Southern California.