Associate Litigation Attorney

The Los Angeles Country Office in Glendale of La Follette Johnson, DeHaas, Fesler & Ames is seeking highly motivated associates with a minimum of 1-5 years' legal experience, preferably in civil litigation, to assist our partners in defending healthcare providers and institutions in complex medical negligence litigation. Position Summary The Associate works on cases in the defense of physicians, hospitals and other healthcare providers. The incumbent contributes to and executes comprehensive case strategy, client communication, and risk assessment while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and advocacy. Position Responsibilities Co-managing a caseload of complex medical malpractice defense matters from inception through resolution, including pre-suit investigation, discovery, motion-practice, trial, and appeal. Represents physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare professionals in depositions, court hearings, trials, and other legal proceedings, providing sound legal advice to clients. Assist and serve as second-chair trial counsel depending on experience, building persuasive trial themes, strategy, opening statements, witness examinations, and closing arguments. Manage trial preparation efforts, developing and executing comprehensive case strategies. Perform case evaluation and risk assessment in coordination with clients and insurance carriers, positioning cases for favorable resolution. Appear and argue contested hearings, case management conferences, and evidentiary motions with confidence and professionalism. Direct settlement negotiations and mediations from a position of trial readiness to achieve optimal outcomes. Provide strategic guidance to clients throughout the litigation process, including candid assessments of liability exposure, jury selection, and trial risk. Retain, prepare, and strategically position witnesses, including medical experts. Prepare and respond to discovery requests, including interrogatories and document production. Defend and take depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts. Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other legal documents. Maintain and update case files, ensuring all documentation is accurate and current. Remain current on evolving medical malpractice law, standards, and procedural rules to ensure highly effective advocacy in court. Work collaboratively with other attorneys, paralegals, and legal staff to ensure effective communication, excellent outcomes, and contribute to the firm’s culture. Perform other duties as assigned. Position Requirements The ideal candidate has a minimum of 1-3 years of legal experience, preferably in civil defense, with litigation experience in medical malpractice considered a plus. They are licensed and in good standing with the State Bar of California . The candidate works effectively both independently and as a contributing member of the team, with advanced written and verbal communication skills, and maintains attention to detail while working under pressure, multitasking, and meeting deadlines. They demonstrate strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, maintain a professional attitude and demeanor at all times, and show a demonstrated ability to solve practical problems and interpret or follow a variety of instructions furnished in written or oral form. The candidate is also able to use and understand computer programs to analyze and solve business issues. #J-18808-Ljbffr