Attorney

Employment Defense Litigation Attorney (5+ Years) Opportunity Summary Mission Recruiting is conducting a confidential search for an experienced Employment Defense Litigation Attorney to join a respected healthcare-focused legal practice in Walnut Creek, California. This is an excellent opportunity for a litigator with 5+ years of experience who enjoys managing employment defense matters from pre-litigation through resolution while providing strategic counsel to sophisticated healthcare clients. The position offers a competitive salary of $175,000–$225,000 (with flexibility for highly experienced candidates), quarterly bonus opportunities averaging approximately $20,000 annually , comprehensive benefits, a sustainable 135–140 billable hours per month , and the opportunity to join a collaborative team where thoughtful advocacy and client counseling are valued over high-volume trial work. Compensation Salary Range: $175,000–$225,000 Additional Compensation: Quarterly performance bonuses averaging approximately $20,000 annually Discretionary bonus opportunities Location & Work Arrangement Work Arrangement: Onsite Primarily onsite with limited scheduling flexibility Collaborative office environment About the Opportunity Our client is seeking an experienced litigator to support a growing healthcare-focused employment defense practice. This role has become available due to increased workload and presents an opportunity to step into an active caseload while working closely with a collaborative legal team. The practice emphasizes strategic litigation, risk management, mediation, arbitration, and negotiated resolutions rather than frequent trial appearances. Attorneys who enjoy solving complex employment disputes, advising clients proactively, and independently managing litigation matters will find an excellent long-term opportunity for professional growth. Responsibilities Manage employment defense matters from pre-litigation through final resolution Represent clients in mediations, arbitrations, hearings, and occasional trials Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, settlement agreements, and other litigation documents Conduct legal research and develop effective litigation strategies Manage depositions, witness interviews, and discovery Advise healthcare clients regarding legal risk, liability, and dispute resolution Negotiate favorable settlements and resolutions Maintain organized case files and ensure procedural compliance Collaborate with attorneys, paralegals, and support staff to deliver exceptional client service Recommended Qualifications Active California Bar admission in good standing 5+ years of litigation experience Juris Doctor from an accredited law school Strong understanding of California civil procedure and rules of evidence Experience handling discovery, motion practice, depositions, and client counseling Ability to independently manage multiple active litigation matters Excellent legal writing, analytical, negotiation, and communication skills Proficiency with legal research platforms and litigation technology Preferred Qualifications Experience representing healthcare employers Employment counseling and risk management experience Mediation and arbitration experience Strong organizational and case management skills Collaborative, team-oriented mindset with the ability to work independently Employer-sponsored medical insurance Vision insurance Employer-paid life insurance Short-term disability coverage Long-term disability coverage Health Savings Account (HSA) Flexible Spending Account (FSA) 401(k) with employer match Nine paid holidays Unlimited vacation Parental leave Quarterly and discretionary bonus opportunities Why This Opportunity Stands Out Sophisticated employment defense practice serving healthcare clients Focus on strategic litigation, mediation, arbitration, and client counseling Sustainable 135–140 monthly billable hour expectation Strong compensation with quarterly bonus potential Comprehensive employer-sponsored benefits package Stable, collaborative, and team-oriented work environment Opportunity to step into an active litigation practice with immediate responsibility #J-18808-Ljbffr