Associate Attorney (3+ years)

Tyson & Mendes LLP•Costa Mesa, CA

10d•$115,000 - $160,000

About The Position

Tyson & Mendes is seeking an Associate Attorney to join Partner Margaret “Peggy” Holm’s litigation team in its Orange County office. The role is intended for an attorney with an insurance defense foundation who wants to develop litigation judgment and courtroom skills through substantive work, direct feedback, and mentorship from an accomplished trial attorney. The team handles matters including medical malpractice, catastrophic injury, wrongful death, elder abuse, institutional liability, trucking and automobile cases, and complex claims involving healthcare and entertainment organizations. Some cases involve sensitive facts and call for maturity, sound judgment, and professionalism. The associate will work directly on cases, participate in depositions, develop strategy, handle discovery and motions, communicate with clients, prepare for court, and build toward increased courtroom and trial responsibility. The team offers newer attorneys a manageable caseload, regular guidance, frequent communication, and weekly team meetings. The attorney is expected to think independently, engage with challenging work, and contribute to a collaborative team. The firm offers remote, hybrid, or onsite work options; Peggy expects to be in the Costa Mesa office approximately three days each week. The base salary is $115,000–$160,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Attorneys may also qualify for an annual billable-hours bonus. The firm describes comprehensive benefits, training and leadership development, and opportunities for professional growth, including a defined pathway to partnership.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
Active California bar license.
Three to eight years of 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.
Proactive, inquisitive, hardworking, and accountable approach; ability to communicate openly, treat others respectfully, and take ownership of work.

Nice To Haves

Prior insurance defense experience is preferred.

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 the 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.
Work on cases directly, participate in depositions, develop strategy, handle discovery and motions, communicate with clients, and prepare for court.
Build toward greater courtroom and trial responsibility.

Benefits

Annual billable-hours bonus, starting at $10,000 and increasing by $7,500 for each additional 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 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.