Associate Attorney - Defense Litigation

Coastal Wave Recruiting•Irvine, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

A nationally recognized litigation law firm is seeking Associate Attorneys with 2+ years of defense litigation experience to join its growing California practice. The firm handles sophisticated civil litigation for clients across the country, with a particular focus on general liability, toxic tort, product liability, environmental liability, and other complex litigation matters. This is an opportunity for attorneys who want substantive responsibility, direct involvement in cases, and the ability to independently manage matters while working alongside experienced litigators on both local and national accounts. Attorneys may join one of two primary practice areas: General Liability - Represent clients in a broad range of civil defense matters, including premises liability, personal injury, product liability, and other complex liability claims. Toxic Tort Litigation - Handle sophisticated toxic tort and environmental litigation involving complex factual, medical, scientific, and expert issues.

Requirements

Minimum of 2+ years of defense litigation experience required
Experience in one or more of the following areas strongly preferred: General Liability, Product Liability, Toxic Tort Litigation, Environmental Liability, Complex Civil Litigation
Juris Doctor from an ABA-accredited law school required
Active California Bar admission required
Experience with substantive motion practice
Deposition experience required
Experience taking the lead on plaintiff and/or expert depositions strongly preferred
Strong legal research and writing skills
Ability to independently manage cases and competing deadlines
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
Highly organized with strong attention to detail
Ability to effectively manage multiple matters in a fast-paced litigation environment
Active California Bar license
J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
2+ years of relevant defense litigation experience

Nice To Haves

Experience in one or more of the following areas strongly preferred: General Liability, Product Liability, Toxic Tort Litigation, Environmental Liability, Complex Civil Litigation
Experience taking the lead on plaintiff and/or expert depositions strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Handle local and national litigation matters throughout California
Independently manage an active defense litigation caseload
Develop case strategy in collaboration with partners and clients
Conduct plaintiff, fact witness, and expert depositions
Prepare witnesses for depositions and trial
Review and analyze discovery requests and case materials
Draft and respond to written discovery
Research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other substantive legal documents
Handle motion practice and court appearances
Work directly with clients, experts, opposing counsel, and other parties
Assist with and participate in trial preparation and trial
Manage deadlines and cases efficiently from inception through resolution
Maintain accurate and timely billing records