Associate Attorney

Tyson & Mendes•Fresno, CA

About The Position

Tyson & Mendes is seeking an Associate Attorney to join its Fresno, California litigation team. The role focuses on insurance defense and offers opportunities to manage cases and develop litigation skills through discovery, depositions, motion practice, court appearances, expert investigations, and trial preparation. The Fresno practice handles agricultural and agribusiness disputes, premises liability, personal injury defense, products liability, automobile liability, landlord-tenant and habitability matters, and complex civil litigation. The position offers hands-on mentorship from Partner Alexandra Noyes, along with collaboration and case support from attorneys and staff. The team provides access to paralegal and legal assistant support, mentors across California, legal research and technology resources, established litigation processes, trial training, and professional development. Flexible work arrangements may be remote, hybrid, or onsite, depending on the position, experience, and practice needs. Tyson & Mendes is a national civil defense firm that emphasizes innovative litigation, professional development, and collaborative work. Compensation includes a base salary of $115,000–$160,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications, and eligibility for an annual billable-hours bonus. Benefits include comprehensive health coverage, a 401(k) match, and additional professional and employee programs.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
Active California bar license.
1–8 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.

Nice To Haves

Prior insurance defense experience.
Experience with discovery, legal research and writing, depositions, and case management.
Spanish-language proficiency, particularly given the team's agricultural litigation practice.

Responsibilities

Develop compelling case strategies that cut through emotional arguments and drive results.
Set a high standard of work and push for excellence.
Independently manage court appearances, depositions, motion practice, and trials.
Collaborate with attorneys and staff at all experience levels.
Maintain consistent, professional communication with clients.
Build and nurture relationships with existing and prospective clients.
Mentor and guide junior attorneys, contributing to team growth and success.

Benefits

Competitive compensation and an annual billable-hours bonus.
Comprehensive benefits 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.
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.