Associate Attorney (3+ years)

Tyson & Mendes LLP•Costa Mesa, CA

4d•$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 handle substantive, sophisticated civil litigation matters and develop into a stronger litigator. The associate will work closely with an accomplished trial lawyer, receive direct feedback and guidance, and have opportunities to build 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. The work includes participating in depositions, developing case strategy, handling discovery and motions, communicating with clients, preparing for court, and progressing toward greater courtroom and trial responsibility. Some cases involve difficult and sensitive facts and require maturity, sound judgment, and professionalism. The firm describes its mentorship as involving a manageable caseload for newer attorneys, regular interaction with Peggy, weekly team meetings, and a collaborative team culture. Attorneys are expected to think independently, engage with their work, and bring questions and ideas to the team. Peggy plans to spend approximately three days a week in the Costa Mesa office. The firm offers remote, hybrid, or onsite work options.

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.

Nice To Haves

Prior insurance defense experience.

Responsibilities

Develop compelling case strategies that cut through emotional arguments and drive results.
Set a high standard, challenge mediocrity, and pursue 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.
Handle discovery, motions, case management, client communications, and trial preparation.
Develop toward greater courtroom and trial responsibility.

Benefits

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.
Diversity and inclusion programs, including the Women’s Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative.
Firm-wide charitable giving program.
Social and off-site events.
Annual billable-hours bonus, starting at $10,000 and increasing by $7,500 for each additional tier.