Associate Attorney - Litigation (Santa Ana, CA)Nuclear verdicts have made high-stakes litigation a defining challenge for corporate America. It is why leading companies across industries rely on Hawkins Parnell in the toughest disputes and jurisdictions nationwide.For an associate, that means you will not spend years on the sidelines waiting for a courtroom. Our Orange County team defends complex, high-exposure cases that actually go to trial, with associates taking on critical roles in the outcomes we deliver for clients.You would be part of a national defense litigation firm that has represented more than half of the Fortune 500 and has over 250 attorneys and professionals in 19 offices across 14 states. The firm was recently identified as a top law firm for associates and distinguished for activities that drive job satisfaction in BTI Consulting's 2026 Associate Satisfaction A‑Listers Survey of Law Firms Where Associates are Happiest.Core defense litigation work in the Orange County officeGeneral liability, transportation, construction, premises liability, product liability, professional liability, toxic tort, and environmental litigation for clients ranging from global corporations to local businesses.What you will doTake and defend depositionsPrepare and argue motions in state and federal courtDevelop case strategy alongside partners, including discovery planning, records analysis, client interviews, and witness preparationWork directly with nationally recognized trial lawyers to prepare cases for trialHandle research and briefing in complex litigationWhat you need0-6 years of litigation experienceClient-focused and collaborative approachCritical thinking, strategic judgment, and instincts to think on your feet and work independentlyStrong writing, research, and analytical skillsAbility to communicate with brevity and influence decisionsWhat we invest in youWe rival the largest firms in the areas we invest in, without asking you to sacrifice your life to get there. We do the right thing to support each other through different life stages while building rewarding careers. If you want to gain substantive experience and learn from lawyers who actually try cases, this is the place to do it.BenefitsCompensation: $130,000-$180,000 base salary, depending on experienceRetirement: Annual 3% 401(k) contribution, 100% vested from day one, plus eligibility for annual profit sharing based on firm performance contributed to your 401(k)Flexibility: Hybrid remote or full-time onsiteHealth: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, 24/7 Teladoc access, life insurance, and short- and long-term disabilityWellbeing: Free counseling and work/life specialist support through our Employee Assistance Program, plus Sibly digital coachingFamily: Paid maternity and paternity leave, Milk Stork support for nursing mothers who travel, and up to five days of paid bereavement leaveGrowth: Mentorship, professional development, and different career paths. The firm has elected several new partners out of the Orange County office over the past couple of years.Hawkins Parnell & Young is an equal opportunity employer.#J-18808-Ljbffr