Associate Attorney (3+ years)

Tyson & Mendes LLP•Costa Mesa, CA

9d•$115,000 - $160,000

About The Position

Tyson & Mendes is seeking an Associate Attorney to join Partner Margaret “Peggy” Holm’s litigation team. The role offers an opportunity for an attorney with an insurance defense foundation to handle substantive and sophisticated civil litigation matters, receive direct guidance and feedback, and develop litigation judgment and courtroom skills. 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 matters involve difficult or sensitive facts and require maturity, sound judgment, and professionalism. The attorney will work on cases directly, participate in depositions, develop strategies, handle discovery and motions, communicate with clients, prepare for court, and build toward greater courtroom and trial responsibility. The team offers newer attorneys a manageable caseload, regular interaction with the partner, weekly team meetings, and opportunities for in-person collaboration. The role expects independent thinking, initiative, accountability, and active engagement with the team. The firm offers remote, hybrid, or onsite work options; Peggy plans to spend approximately three days per week in the Costa Mesa office. Tyson & Mendes describes itself as a fast-growing civil defense firm that invests in attorney training, leadership development, and professional growth. The firm provides specialized training in its defense methods and offers clear pathways to leadership and partnership.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
Active California Bar license.
3–8 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.
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; the introductory description states that 3+ years of insurance defense experience are required.

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 provide guidance to junior attorneys, contributing to team growth and success.
Handle discovery and motions, participate in depositions, prepare for court, and work toward greater courtroom and trial responsibility.

Benefits

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.
Flexible work model with remote, hybrid, or onsite options.