Litigation Associate

Job Description

Job Description

Title: Litigation Associate

Employment Type: Full-time, permanent

Compensation: $140,000–$200,000 annually

Location: Southern California; office in West Los Angeles

Work Model: Primarily home-based, with monthly office gatherings, in-person trial preparation as needed and trial travel

Industry: Legal Services — Civil Litigation

Work Authorization: Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Company Overview

This boutique litigation practice defends vehicle manufacturers and distributors in consumer warranty, product liability and business disputes across California. Its work spans state and federal litigation, giving associates exposure to both case preparation and courtroom advocacy.

Position Summary

Four associate openings offer a path to developing a trial practice through direct involvement in civil cases. Working with seasoned litigators, associates contribute to written advocacy, fact development and trial execution. Assignments reflect each attorney’s experience, with opportunities to assist as second chair and later lead trials when ready.

The position accommodates candidates living throughout Southern California. In-person time includes monthly team gatherings in Los Angeles and may increase during trial preparation. Trial assignments require travel, principally within Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties and occasionally to the Bay Area.

Candidates beginning their legal careers after law school are eligible, including those without prior litigation employment. Training supports the transition into practice, while attorneys with existing experience can build on their casework and advocacy skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate legal research into briefs and motions that advance the client’s position.
• Develop the factual record through written discovery and deposition work.
• Prepare witness examinations and exhibits for use at trial.
• Address contested discovery issues with the litigation team.
• Support settlement preparation and participate in mediation proceedings.
• Appear in court and handle litigation assignments suited to current experience.
• Contribute to jury trials as second chair, with a path toward leading cases as skills develop.
• Prepare pretrial motions, including requests concerning the evidence presented to a jury.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to analyze legal questions and communicate conclusions clearly in writing.
• Careful judgment and initiative when approaching case assignments.
• Commitment to building practical advocacy skills and taking on courtroom responsibilities.
• Willingness to work closely with colleagues, seek guidance and incorporate feedback.

Preferred Qualifications

• Approximately one to five years of civil litigation practice; prior professional experience is not a prerequisite for candidates entering the profession after law school.
• Practical involvement in discovery, depositions, motion work or trial preparation.
• Experience with automotive or warranty disputes is useful. Plaintiff-side and other civil litigation backgrounds are also welcome when the underlying casework transfers.