Compare your current skills to what this opportunity needs—we'll show you what you already have and what could strengthen your application.
Job Description
Litigation Associate
HOGE FENTON JONES & APPEL
Pleasanton, CA Job Details Full-time $175,000 - $225,000 a year 2 hours ago Benefits Paid parental leave Loan repayment program Disability insurance Health insurance Dental insurance Parental leave Employee assistance program Vision insurance Qualifications Motion processing Legal motion preparation Doctor of Law (JD) Discovery preparation General & commercial litigation Bar Managing litigation projects Courtroom preparation Full Job Description Legal Malpractice & Business Litigation Hoge Fenton, a distinguished multi-service law firm headquartered in downtown San Jose, is seeking a 4th-6th year Litigation Associate with demonstrated experience in legal malpractice defense and business litigation . This is an opportunity to join a collegial, collaborative team and handle substantive, complex matters from day one. Requirements Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school Active membership in the State Bar of California 4-6 years of litigation experience, with a focus on legal malpractice defense and/or business litigation Strong working knowledge of the California Code of Civil Procedure and Evidence Code Experience independently managing client matters, including discovery, motion practice, depositions, and trial preparation Proven ability to draft and argue dispositive motions, including demurrers, motions for summary judgment, and motions in limine Excellent written and oral communication skills Desire to invest in building a future with a mid-sized law firm Key Responsibilities Manage and litigate legal malpractice defense matters, including defending attorneys and law firms against professional liability claims Handle complex business litigation matters involving breach of contract, partnership disputes, trade secret misappropriation, unfair business practices, and related claims Conduct thorough legal research and analysis; develop and execute case strategy with partner oversight Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, and other legal documents with precision and attention to detail Take and defend depositions of fact witnesses, opposing parties, and expert witnesses Prepare for and participate in mediations, settlement negotiations, hearings, and trials to achieve favorable outcomes for clients Directly communicate with clients to provide updates, manage expectations, and build lasting relationships Location This position can be based in our Silicon Valley (downtown San Jose), Tri-Valley (Pleasanton), or Peninsula (San Mateo) office. Travel between locations may be necessary. Compensation and Benefits The annual base salary for this position ranges from $175,000 to $225,000. This range reflects the firm's good faith estimate of potential compensation, which may vary based on experience, qualifications, and skill set. We offer our associates a full array of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance, Employee Assistance Program, 401(k), a student loan repayment benefit, paid parental leave, teleworking opportunities, and a no-accrual vacation policy. We provide both formal and informal training opportunities and encourage professional growth, both as a lawyer and a businessperson. Our Associate positions carry a 1,700 hour annual billable target. Why Hoge Fenton? Hoge Fenton has been a trusted name in Silicon Valley legal circles for decades. As a well-established, multi-service firm, we bring the depth and reputation of a large firm with the agility and culture of a mid-size one. Direct partner access & mentorship: Associates work closely with experienced partners from day one. You'll get real feedback, real responsibility, and a genuine investment in your development as a lawyer and a businessperson.
A culture built to last:
Our attorneys stay. Long tenures are the norm here, which means you'll build lasting relationships with colleagues who are genuinely invested in each other's success. Collegial & collaborative environment: We take our work seriously — not ourselves. Our team is supportive, approachable, and built on mutual respect across all levels of seniority. Work-life balance you can actually count on: We offer flexibility, a no-accrual vacation policy, teleworking opportunities, and a 1,700 hour billable target — because we want our attorneys to thrive inside and outside the office.
Rooted in the community:
Hoge Fenton attorneys are active participants in the communities we serve. We encourage and support civic involvement, bar association leadership, and pro bono work.
A clear path forward:
We are transparent about what it takes to grow at this firm. Whether your goal is partnership or a long and rewarding career as senior counsel, we'll help you get there. Equal Opportunity Statement Hoge Fenton has a strong commitment to diversity. We strive to recruit and retain a workforce that welcomes and supports the interests of women, families, and individuals of all ages, races, creeds, religions, colors, national origins, ethnicities, sexual orientations, gender identities/gender expressions, disabilities, or military and veteran statuses. Our environment is collegial, collaborative, flexible, and supportive.
