Civil Litigation Attorney (Public Entity Defense)

Job Description

Job Description

Direct Counsel is proud to partner with a highly respected and established law firm that represents local public entities in complex and high-stakes personal injury and civil litigation matters. Known for its collaborative culture and commitment to excellence, this firm provides attorneys with meaningful hands-on experience, exceptional mentorship, and a clear path for professional growth.

The firm is actively seeking a Civil Litigation Associate Attorney with at least two years of litigation experience to join its growing team. This is an outstanding opportunity for an attorney looking to take the next step in their career while gaining exposure to sophisticated litigation matters and working alongside accomplished Senior Associates and Partners.

Why You'll Love This Opportunity

This role offers the opportunity to work on challenging and impactful cases from inception through resolution while receiving direct mentorship from experienced litigators who are invested in your success. You'll have the opportunity to develop your advocacy skills, gain substantial courtroom exposure, and build a strong foundation for long-term career advancement.

The firm fosters a collegial and supportive environment where attorneys are encouraged to collaborate, contribute strategically, and continue developing their legal expertise.

What You'll Do

• Manage and support a diverse civil litigation caseload involving personal injury matters on behalf of local public entities.
• Conduct legal research and draft persuasive motions, pleadings, briefs, and memoranda.
• Handle all phases of discovery, including drafting and responding to written discovery, document review, and depositions.
• Participate in case strategy discussions alongside Senior Associates and Partners.
• Prepare witnesses, exhibits, and litigation materials for hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trial.
• Attend court appearances, depositions, mediations, and client meetings as appropriate.
• Collaborate closely with attorneys, legal staff, and clients to deliver exceptional legal services.
• Develop litigation strategies that align with client objectives while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and client service.

What We're Looking For

• Minimum of two (2) years of civil litigation experience.
• Experience handling personal injury and/or public entity defense matters is preferred but not required.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical abilities.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Demonstrated commitment to collaboration, professionalism, and outstanding client service.
• Licensed and in good standing with the California State Bar.

Billable Hour Expectations

• Monthly billable hour expectation of 160 hours.
• Attorneys are provided with meaningful, substantive work and supported by a collaborative team environment that promotes both professional excellence and sustainable success.
• Attorneys who exceed billable hour expectations are eligible for performance-based bonus opportunities, rewarding exceptional productivity and contributions to the firm's continued success.

What the Firm Offers

• Competitive compensation ranging from $120,000 to $160,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities for exceeding billable hour expectations.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Direct mentorship from highly experienced litigators.
• Meaningful opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Exposure to sophisticated and impactful public entity litigation matters.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment that values both individual achievement and collective success.
• The opportunity to build a long-term career with a well-respected and growing firm.

Compensation

• Base Salary: $120,000 – $160,000 annually, based on experience.
• Performance-Based Bonus: Available for attorneys who exceed monthly billable hour expectations.

If you're seeking an opportunity to refine your litigation skills, work on meaningful and challenging matters, and grow alongside an exceptional team of attorneys, we would love to connect with you.