Associate Attorney

Tyson & Mendes LLP•Costa Mesa, CA

5d•$115,000 - $160,000

About The Position

Tyson & Mendes is seeking an Associate Attorney to join its Orange County team in Costa Mesa. The role is suited to an attorney with a strong civil litigation foundation who is ready to take greater responsibility, develop judgment, and become an increasingly independent litigator. Insurance defense experience is preferred, though strong civil litigators who are ready to learn insurance defense are also considered. The Orange County office handles general liability, premises liability, personal injury, construction defect, medical malpractice, toxic and mass torts, employment, and other complex civil litigation matters. Associates can gain experience throughout the litigation lifecycle, including discovery, depositions, motions, court appearances, case strategy, client and carrier communication, mediation, and trial preparation. The office is managed by Partner Michelle Campbell and includes experienced partners, senior attorneys, mentors, and trial lawyers who support associate development. The team emphasizes independence alongside accessibility, timely feedback, and collaboration. The Costa Mesa office offers remote, hybrid, or onsite work options, with opportunities to work alongside colleagues in person. The position offers 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 insurance coverage, a 401(k) matching program, paid parental leave, professional development, and other benefits.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
Active California Bar license.
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.
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 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.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits coverage, including health, vision, dental, and life coverage; plans are 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 throughout the year.
Flexible work model with remote, hybrid, or onsite options.
Annual billable-hours bonus.