Defense Associate Attorney

Job Overview:
A well-respected litigation firm is seeking a Defense Associate Attorney with at least 3 years of experience to join its Asbestos Litigation team. The ideal candidate will be admitted to the California Bar and have experience in toxic tort, product liability, or asbestos defense. The firm offers a flexible and inclusive work environment with remote or hybrid options, substantial bonus potential, and professional development support.

Location:

• Irvine, CA

Duties:

• Handle all aspects of asbestos and toxic tort defense litigation

• Manage case files from inception through resolution

• Draft and respond to written discovery and motions

• Conduct and defend depositions

• Represent clients in court appearances, hearings, and other proceedings

• Collaborate with supervising attorneys and legal teams

• Participate in ongoing case strategy and client communications

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of litigation experience

• Experience with written discovery, depositions, motion practice, and hearings preferred

• Prior experience in asbestos, toxic tort, or product liability matters is highly desirable

• Strong case management and organizational skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Availability for occasional in-person court appearances

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar

Skills:

• Strong legal writing, research, and oral advocacy skills

• Case strategy development and execution

• Client communication and courtroom presence

• Familiarity with asbestos litigation procedures and best practices

• Adaptability in remote and in-person legal settings

Benefits:

• Remote and hybrid work flexibility

• Flexible vacation policy and paid sick time

• Paid parental leave

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options

• Paid life and disability insurance

• Formal mentorship program

• Ongoing MCLE and litigation skills training

• Social events and team-building gatherings

The Orange County office of this firm splits its business into several practice areas, including: asbestos law, banking law, construction litigation, employment law, environmental law, environmental litigation, municipal law, real estate law, tort liability law and transactional law. The firms trial reputation, in particular, is well established and the firms attorneys have obtained several highly publicized defense verdicts in recent years. Attorneys are, by and large, friendly with each other.