Associate Attorney

Our Orange County office is seeking an Associate Attorney to join our dynamic municipal and public law practice. This position offers the opportunity to work directly with cities, special districts, public agencies, and private‑sector clients on complex legal matters that shape communities throughout California. The successful candidate will gain hands‑on experience advising clients, handling litigation matters, drafting legal opinions, negotiating agreements, and appearing before courts, administrative agencies, and public boards. This role is ideal for an attorney who is eager to develop expertise in public agency law, land use, labor and employment, real estate, environmental matters, and municipal governance while working alongside experienced attorneys in a collaborative and client‑focused environment. Practice Areas Cannabis Code Enforcement Contracts & Public Works Economic Development Education Elections Energy & Utilities Environment & Natural Resources Ethics & Open Government Franchises Housing Labor & Employment Land Use & Zoning Litigation Mining Mobile Home Parks & Rent Control Property Acquisition & Takings Public Agency Organization Public Finance Public Safety Real Estate Risk Management & Torts Telecommunications Toxics & Hazardous Waste Water Law Essential Duties and Responsibilities Legal Research and Analysis Research and analyze complex legal issues and prepare memoranda, legal opinions, pleadings, and briefs for review by Supervising Attorneys. Analyze and summarize contracts, agreements, ordinances, resolutions, and other legal documents, recommending revisions and risk mitigation strategies. Conduct due diligence reviews related to contracts, transactions, and public agency matters. Review statutes, regulations, case law, and administrative decisions to provide practical legal guidance to clients. Litigation and Advocacy Perform all phases of litigation, including discovery, motion practice, legal research, and trial preparation. Review and manage electronically stored information (ESI) and documentary evidence. Analyze potential legal exposure and probable case outcomes based on applicable legal precedent. Develop litigation strategies and legal arguments for hearings, trials, arbitrations, and administrative proceedings. Represent clients before courts, administrative agencies, governing boards, commissions, and regulatory bodies. Client Counseling Advise clients regarding legal rights, obligations, governance issues, business transactions, regulatory compliance, and litigation risks. Maintain regular communication with clients and provide responsive, practical legal counsel. Collaborate with attorneys across practice groups to address multidisciplinary legal matters affecting public agencies and organizations. Professional and Administrative Responsibilities Supervise Paralegals, Legal Secretaries, and other support staff as appropriate. Participate in client development and community engagement activities. Assist with firm initiatives, special projects, and administrative functions. Maintain compliance with all firm policies, ethical obligations, and professional standards. Perform other duties as assigned. #J-18808-Ljbffr