Litigation Associate Attorney

A law firm seeks an experienced civil litigator to join its San Diego, CA, office. This role involves managing an existing docket of cases and defending clients in matters such as personal injury, lease disputes, and general contract claims. The position offers a collegial environment emphasizing professional growth, work–life balance, and includes benefits like retirement savings, health coverage, and flexible scheduling.

Duties

• Assume responsibility for a full case portfolio, overseeing files from initial intake through resolution

• Draft and respond to written discovery requests, including interrogatories, document demands, and requests for admission

• Conduct depositions of fact and expert witnesses, preparing lines of questioning, and coordinating logistics

• Represent clients in mediation sessions and settlement conferences, negotiating favorable outcomes when possible

• Prepare and argue dispositive motions, evidentiary motions, and other court filings under tight deadlines

• Participate in pretrial hearings, status conferences, and all aspects of trial preparation, including witness preparation and exhibit organization

• Collaborate with senior attorneys and support staff on strategy development, risk assessment, and case budgeting

• Maintain open communication with clients’ in-house counsel or executives, providing regular updates on case progress and potential exposure

Requirements

• Minimum of five years of civil litigation experience, including defense of tort and contractual disputes

• Active California Bar license in good standing

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple files simultaneously and meet rigorous deadlines

• Excellent legal research and writing skills, with the capacity to draft persuasive pleadings and briefs

• Strong oral advocacy, negotiation, and client-relations abilities

• Self-motivated work ethic: able to work independently and as part of a small, collaborative team

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school

Certifications

• Admission to the California State Bar (required)

Skills

• Legal research: proficiency with Westlaw, LexisNexis, or equivalent research platforms

• Written advocacy: clear, concise drafting of memoranda, motions, and discovery correspondence

• Oral advocacy: persuasive presentation of arguments in hearings, mediations, and trial settings

• Trial readiness: adept at organizing trial exhibits, coordinating with experts, and preparing witnesses

• Client engagement: strong interpersonal skills to maintain positive relationships with corporate decision-makers

• Time management: ability to prioritize case tasks, track court-imposed deadlines, and report progress promptly

• Collaboration: effective teamwork with senior attorneys, paralegals, and administrative support

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan with matching contributions

• Dental insurance

• Flexible work schedule

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options

• Health insurance (medical and vision)

• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, and personal days)