Associate Attorney

Tyson & Mendes LLP•San Bernardino, CA

10d•$115,000 - $160,000

About The Position

Tyson & Mendes is hiring an Associate Attorney to join its growing Inland Empire litigation team. The firm is building a new team with plans for a permanent office in the Redlands area. Attorneys joining during this growth phase can take on meaningful case responsibility, receive individualized mentorship from experienced litigators, and grow alongside the office. The team is currently working from collaborative office space, with its future permanent office location dependent on the needs of the expanding team. The role involves varied civil litigation, including automobile liability, premises liability, product liability, and other matters. The firm also welcomes attorneys with related civil litigation backgrounds, including medical malpractice, professional liability, and construction defect. Associates are encouraged to take ownership of their work, build client relationships, develop writing and advocacy skills, and gain greater courtroom exposure as their careers progress. The firm describes its culture as collaborative and grounded in trust, communication, camaraderie, and mutual respect. Tyson & Mendes offers the resources, training, technology, and stability of a national litigation firm along with the visibility and opportunities of a smaller team. The firm provides specialized training in its defense methods, professional development, and paths to leadership. Remote, hybrid, or onsite work options are available.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
Active California Bar license.
1–8 years of solid litigation experience, including case strategy, depositions, and trial preparation.
Ability to independently manage a full caseload from discovery through trial.
Familiarity with litigation timekeeping and billing systems.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
Self-motivation and strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities.
Professional appearance and demeanor.

Nice To Haves

Prior insurance defense experience is preferred.
Substantive civil litigation experience in related areas, such as medical malpractice, professional liability, construction defect, or broader civil litigation.
Experience with discovery, depositions, motion practice, case strategy, and trial preparation.
Interest in gaining greater courtroom exposure as a career progresses.

Responsibilities

Develop compelling case strategies that cut through emotional arguments and drive results.
Set a higher standard by challenging mediocrity and pursuing excellence in all aspects of work.
Independently manage court appearances, depositions, motion practice, and trials.
Collaborate with attorneys and staff at all experience levels.
Maintain consistent and professional communication with clients.
Build and nurture relationships with existing and prospective clients.
Mentor and guide junior attorneys, contributing to team growth and success.
Manage a full caseload from discovery through trial.

Benefits

Base salary of $115,000–$160,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
Annual billable-hours bonus starting at $10,000, with an additional $7,500 for each subsequent tier.
Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life coverage, including plans available at zero employee cost.
401(k) program with a 100% match on the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4–5%.
Student loan repayment assistance or a 529 college savings plan for full-time attorneys after one year with the firm, at $100–$200 per month.
Paid parental leave at base pay.
Monthly technology reimbursement of $60.
Employee Assistance Program through HealthAdvocate.
In-house training and leadership development opportunities.
Firm-provided CLE programs and paid bar license renewal fees.
Flexible vacation policy for attorneys.
Defined pathway to partnership.
Internal diversity and inclusion programs, including the Women’s Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative.
Firm-wide charitable giving program.
Social and off-site events throughout the year.
Remote, hybrid, or onsite work options.