Job Description
Senior Associate Attorney LaFollette Johnson DeHaas Fesler & Ames - 4.2 Santa Ana, CA Job Details Full-time $165,000 - $250,000 a year 3 days ago Benefits Health savings account Health insurance Dental insurance Flexible spending account Paid time off Employee assistance program Vision insurance 401(k) matching Employee discount Flexible schedule Life insurance Retirement plan Qualifications Customer relationship building Law Client rapport building Doctor of Law (JD) Attention to detail Client management Organizational skills Legal case management Bar Full Job Description This is an exceptional opportunity for a Senior Associate La Follette, Johnson, DeHaas, Fesler & Ames offers senior attorneys a platform to lead complex, high-stakes litigation, develop lasting client relationships, and play a meaningful role in shaping the next generation of trial lawyers. If you are a proven advocate with a passion for the courtroom and an eye toward building a long-term practice, this is where your career reaches its full potential. (Orange County Office) Position Summary The Senior Associate manages cases in the defense of physicians, hospitals and other healthcare providers. The incumbent will lead and execute comprehensive client relations and development, case strategy, client communication, and risk assessment while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and advocacy. The Senior Associate will manage their own caseload, while also collaborating closely with partners, mentors Associates for development, and developing client relations to build client base. The ideal candidate is a seasoned litigator, with proven experience effectively developing clients and representing them at trial. Position Responsibilities Manage a caseload of complex medical malpractice defense matters from inception through resolution, including pre-suit investigation, discovery, motion-practice, trial, and appeal. Represent physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare professionals in depositions, court hearings, trials, and other legal proceedings, providing sound legal advice to clients. Develop relationships with clients and potential clients, including insurance carriers, hospitals, physicians and others. Serve as first- or second-chair trial counsel, building persuasive trial themes, strategy, opening statements, witness examinations, and closing arguments. Lead trial preparation efforts, developing and executing comprehensive case strategies. Develop case evaluation and risk assessment strategies in coordination with clients and insurance carriers, positioning cases for favorable resolution. Appear and argue in contested hearings, case management conferences, and evidentiary motions with confidence and professionalism. Direct settlement negotiations and mediations from a position of trial readiness, leveraging litigation posture to achieve optimal outcomes. Provide strategic guidance to clients throughout the litigation process, including candid assessments of liability exposure, jury appeal, and trial risk. Retain, prepare, and strategically position witnesses, including medical experts, and conduct direct and cross-examinations at trial. Prepare and respond to discovery requests, including interrogatories and document production. Defend and take depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts. Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other legal documents. Maintain and update case files, ensuring all documentation is accurate and current. Maintain mastery of evolving medical malpractice law, standards, and procedural rules to ensure highly effective advocacy in court. Mentor junior associates in deposition strategy, motion practice, and courtroom presentation, fostering development of trial skills within the team. Work collaboratively with other attorneys, paralegals, and legal staff to ensure effective communication, excellent outcomes, and contribute to the firm's culture. Perform other duties as assigned. Position Requirements A minimum of ten (10) years of legal experience, preferably in civil defense. A minimum of five (5) years of litigation experience, preferably in medical malpractice. Must be licensed and in good standing with the State Bar of California. J.D. from an accredited law school. Ability to work both independently and as a contributing member of our team. Advanced written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work under pressure, multitask, and meet deadlines, while maintaining attention to detail. Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks. Ability to maintain a professional attitude and demeanor. Ability to build and develop relationships with clients. Why Should You Work for Us? Fast-paced environment where sharp attorneys thrive and careers accelerate Work directly with a founding partner who has over 40 years of experience as a leading litigator in California's courts Collaborate alongside senior partners who are deeply invested in your development A platform to build and grow your own client base with full firm support behind you Significant firm investment in technology and infrastructure A growing team with real opportunities for partnership and leadership roles Lead meaningful, complex litigation matters across California with autonomy and resources Mentor and develop junior associates, leaving a lasting impact on the firm's future Contributions that are recognized and rewarded
Pay:
$165,000.00 - $250,000.00 per year Benefits:
401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible schedule Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance License/Certification:
Bar (Required) Work Location:
Hybrid remote in Santa Ana, CA 92705