Associate Attorney

We are looking for an experienced litigation attorney to join a California firm in a contract-to-permanent role. This position offers the opportunity to manage civil litigation matters with a high level of autonomy while partnering closely with leadership and support staff. The ideal candidate brings strong courtroom preparation, sound legal judgment, and the ability to deliver responsive, client-focused service across a varied caseload.

Responsibilities:

• Manage civil litigation files from initial evaluation through resolution, maintaining ownership of strategy, deadlines, and day-to-day case activity.
• Conduct factual and legal analysis at the outset of each matter and provide clear written updates that assess developments, risk, and procedural posture.
• Draft, review, and refine pleadings, dispositive motions, briefs, declarations, and other court filings, including summary judgment submissions.
• Handle discovery by preparing written requests and responses, coordinating document production, and managing deposition notices and related logistics.
• Take and defend party and expert depositions, while preparing clients and witnesses for testimony and other key litigation events.
• Represent clients at case management conferences, hearings, and other court appearances, and assist with trial preparation for contested matters.
• Perform legal research to support motion practice, case strategy, and issue analysis across active files.
• Direct work assignments for paralegals and administrative support team members to keep matters organized, efficient, and moving forward.