Insurance Defense (Personal Injury) Associate Attorney

Job Overview:
A highly regarded mid-sized law firm in Orange County, California is seeking a motivated Associate Attorney to join its growing Insurance Defense team. This role offers the opportunity to manage a personal caseload involving complex personal injury matters and provides valuable courtroom experience. The ideal candidate is a proactive litigator with 1–10+ years of experience in insurance defense and a passion for advocacy.

Location:

• Santa Ana, California

Duties:

• Manage a full caseload from intake through resolution

• Draft pleadings, motions, and discovery documents

• Take and defend depositions

• Attend court hearings, mediations, and other proceedings

• Communicate with clients, insurers, and opposing counsel

• Collaborate with senior attorneys on litigation strategy

• Contribute to a team-driven approach to high-stakes litigation

Requirements:

• 1–10+ years of civil litigation experience, preferably in insurance defense or personal injury matters

• Admitted to practice and in good standing with the California Bar

• Proven ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced legal environment

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Self-motivated with a collaborative mindset

• Strong organizational and analytical capabilities

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Active California Bar license

Skills:

• Civil litigation and trial preparation

• Legal research and writing

• Deposition and courtroom advocacy

• Case strategy and client communication

• Proficiency with litigation management tools and Microsoft Office Suite

Benefits:

• Performance-based bonuses

• Hybrid work model

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Professional development and mentorship

• Strong emphasis on work/life balance

Founded in 1985, the firm practices in areas of real estate, construction, personal injury defense, business litigation, labor and employment, cyber defense, banking and finance, and professional liability. With offices in California, Arizona, Texas, and Washington, the firm represents businesses, corporations, institutions, and individuals in all state and federal courts. The highly experienced team of attorneys provides high-quality legal work and develops creative and efficient solutions for clients. The firm has a collegial and entrepreneurial work environment and opportunities for professional development. The partners, associate attorneys, and professional staff contribute to a wide array of charitable, volunteer-based organizations and programs.