Associate Attorney

Tyson & Mendes LLP•San Francisco, CA

3d•$115,000 - $160,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Tyson & Mendes is seeking Associate Attorneys for their Northern California office, specifically in Novato, to handle matters throughout Northern California and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. The firm emphasizes providing associates with meaningful responsibility, opportunities to work alongside experienced trial attorneys, develop client relationships, and build practical litigation skills. They are looking for proactive, curious, and hardworking individuals eager to gain substantive experience in discovery, depositions, motion practice, case strategy, client communication, mediation, and trial preparation. The firm operates on a meritocracy, valuing initiative, performance, and growth over solely years of experience. The role offers flexibility with remote, hybrid, or onsite options, with access to support professionals and a collaborative team environment. The firm is known for breaking the mold of traditional law firms and is one of the fastest-growing civil defense firms in the country.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school
Active bar license in the state of California
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
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint
Self-motivated with 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 preferred
3+ years of litigation experience preferred, particularly those who already understand the fundamentals of managing an active caseload
Attorneys coming from substantive civil litigation, plaintiff work, criminal litigation, construction, professional liability, or related practices may also bring valuable experience to the team
Grit, curiosity, follow through, strong communication, and initiative
Willingness to take ownership of your development
Desire to become a better lawyer and willingness to put in the work to get there

Responsibilities

Develop compelling case strategies that cut through emotional arguments and drive results
Set a higher standard—challenge mediocrity and push for excellence in every aspect of your work
Independently manage court appearances, depositions, motion practice, and trials
Collaborate seamlessly 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

Benefits

Annual billable hours bonus ranging from $10,000 and then aggregating with $7,500 for every additional tier
Comprehensive benefits coverage offered, including plans available at zero employee cost (average annual employer contribution for health/vision/dental/life coverage is $700-$1,700)
401(k) program that includes 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 (full-time attorneys after one year with the firm) $100-$200/month
Paid parental leave at base pay
Monthly technology reimbursement of $60
Employee Assistance Program through HealthAdvocate
Comprehensive 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, such as the Women’s Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative
Firm-wide charitable giving program
Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues
Flexible Work Model: Remote, hybrid, or onsite options available