Civil Litigator / Defense Associate (5–7 years)
Location: Irvine, CA | In-office with occasional flexibility
Base salary: $140,000–$180,000 DOE
Manageable 1550 billable target
Company Summary
We're a Southern California law firm with offices in Irvine and San Diego, practicing in litigation, business, and trusts & estates. Our team values high-quality work, practical collaboration, and a culture built for long-term sustainability. We believe attorneys do their best work when they're supported, trusted, and balanced.
Position Summary
We're looking for a Civil Litigator with 5–7 years of experience defending personal injury and premises liability cases. You'll manage matters for a self-insured client—not a carrier—allowing more thoughtful, thorough case work. Expect autonomy, reasonable billables, and a supportive, flexible environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Handle civil defense cases (PI and premises) from intake through resolution
* Take and defend depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts
* Draft dispositive and non-dispositive motions (MSJ, demurrers, MILs)
* Conduct discovery, manage experts, prepare mediation materials
* Communicate directly with self-insured client; provide analysis and strategy updates
* Prepare exhibits, witness lists, and trial binders for potential trial
* Maintain 1550 billable-hour target and meet deadlines consistently
Qualifications
* 5–7 years of civil or insurance defense litigation experience
* Strong deposition and motion practice experience
* Licensed and in good standing with the California State Bar
* Excellent writing and verbal communication
* Able to work independently and prioritize efficiently
Nice to Have
* Second-chair or first-chair trial experience
* Experience with self-insured or corporate defense clients
Compensation & Benefits
* Medical, dental, vision, life, 401(k) with match, PTO
* Flexible schedule and occasional work-from-home days
Why this role
* Manageable 1550 billable target
* Self-insured client = no billing micromanagement
* In-office collaboration with flexibility
* No weekend work; family-friendly team
* Modern, balanced environment with real professional autonomy
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