Civil Litigation Attorney – Costa Mesa
Firm Description:
Our client is a national, full-service law firm with more than 1,500 attorneys across 55 offices in 32 states and Washington, D.C. With a strong foundation in litigation and insurance defense, the firm has expanded its capabilities to include corporate, employment, intellectual property, and international practice groups. Known for its breadth of industry knowledge and ability to manage high-volume, complex matters, our client offers attorneys a fast-paced, resource-rich environment with opportunities for growth across a wide range of specialties. The firm’s scale and geographic reach make it a strategic platform for professionals seeking both autonomy and national impact.
Position Description:
Civil Litigation Associate (Real Estate & Personal Injury Defense)
Position OverviewOur client, a leading Am Law firm, is seeking a Civil Litigation Associate to join its Orange County, California office. This opportunity is open to attorneys with 1 to 15 years of litigation experience and offers the chance to work alongside an experienced trial team handling real estate disputes, personal injury defense matters, and other complex civil litigation cases.
The ideal candidate will have strong litigation skills and experience managing matters through all phases of the litigation process, including discovery, motion practice, depositions, hearings, arbitrations, and trials. This role provides significant hands-on experience, client interaction, and opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative litigation environment.
Key Responsibilities
-
Manage civil litigation matters from inception through resolution.
-
Handle all aspects of defense litigation, including case strategy and day-to-day case management.
-
Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other substantive court filings.
-
Conduct and manage written discovery.
-
Prepare for and take depositions.
-
Appear at hearings, arbitrations, mediations, and court proceedings.
-
Assist with and participate in trial preparation and trial work.
-
Analyze legal issues and develop effective defense strategies.
-
Collaborate with clients, experts, and litigation teams to achieve favorable outcomes.
-
Represent clients in real estate, personal injury, and other complex civil litigation matters.
Qualifications
-
Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
-
Admission to the California Bar.
-
1 to 15 years of litigation experience.
-
Experience handling:
-
Case management
-
Discovery
-
Motion practice
-
Hearings
-
Depositions
-
Arbitrations
-
Trials
-
-
Strong legal research and writing skills.
-
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
-
Defense litigation experience preferred, but not required.
-
Ability to manage multiple matters in a fast-paced environment.
-
Strong communication and client-service skills.
Compensation
The salary range for this position is $135,000 to $220,000 annually.
Actual compensation may vary based on experience, qualifications, skills, performance, and other job-related factors.
Benefits & Professional Development
Our client offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions. The firm also provides attorneys with meaningful trial exposure, mentorship opportunities, professional development resources, and the chance to work closely with experienced litigators on sophisticated matters.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Our client is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants in accordance with applicable law.
Application Requirements
Qualified candidates should submit:
-
Resume
-
Law School Transcript
-
Any additional materials requested during the hiring process
Location: Orange County, California
Work Arrangement: Hybrid
Meet Your Recruiter
Samir Metovic
Director of Legal Recruiting