Senior Counsel (Complex Trial)

Tyson & Mendes LLP•Sacramento, CA

16h•Hybrid

About The Position

Tyson & Mendes is a national force in insurance defense and trial advocacy, known for its mission to stop Nuclear Verdicts® and its results-driven approach to high-exposure litigation. They are expanding their Complex Trial Teams and seeking accomplished Senior Counsel ready to make an impact in the courtroom and beyond. This role is for an experienced trial lawyer who thrives on complex, high-stakes cases, values strategy over spectacle, and wants to be part of a team that is reshaping the future of civil defense. The firm offers leadership opportunities, elite training and resources, stability, authentic inclusion, and a flexible work model (office-based, hybrid, or remote).

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
Active license to practice law in California and eligibility to practice in federal courts
8+ years of experience in insurance defense litigation with a strong focus on complex trial work
Demonstrated success as lead trial counsel in multiple high-stakes cases
Strong knowledge of civil procedure, tort law, insurance law, and trial strategies
Proven ability to manage and prioritize a large, demanding caseload with limited oversight
Exceptional oral advocacy, legal writing, and negotiation skills
Strong client relationship management skills with an ability to communicate complex legal strategies effectively
Experience with e-discovery tools and case management software

Nice To Haves

Background in catastrophic injury, construction defect, or professional liability cases preferred
Membership in local or national trial lawyer associations is a plus

Responsibilities

Lead Complex Trials: Represent clients in high-exposure and complex insurance defense cases, including cases involving catastrophic injury, wrongful death, property damage, and professional liability
Case Strategy and Planning: Develop and execute case strategies, including risk assessment, discovery, motion practice, and trial preparation
Client Advisement: Work closely with clients, insurance carriers, and adjusters to provide clear legal advice, case assessments, and updates on case developments
Litigation Management: Oversee all stages of litigation, including pleadings, discovery, depositions, pre-trial motions, and settlement negotiations
Courtroom Representation: Serve as lead counsel in jury trials, bench trials, and mediations, presenting cases effectively and persuasively
Team Leadership and Mentorship: Supervise and mentor junior attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, ensuring high-quality work and compliance with best practices
Collaboration with Experts: Collaborate with expert witnesses, including medical, forensic, engineering, and economic experts, to strengthen case arguments

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