Construction Litigation Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is representing an established and highly regarded civil litigation defense firm seeking a Construction Litigation Associate Attorney to join its growing Orange County practice. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced construction litigator to handle a diverse range of sophisticated construction disputes from pre-litigation through trial and appeals.

The practice represents clients across both private and public works projects, including contractors, subcontractors, architects and engineers, construction managers, manufacturers and suppliers, owners, and sureties.

Responsibilities

• Handle a broad range of construction litigation matters from pre-litigation through trial and appeals
• Represent clients in disputes involving private and public construction projects
• Advise and defend:
  • General contractors and subcontractors
  • Architects, engineers, and other design professionals
  • Construction managers
  • Owners and developers
  • Product manufacturers and suppliers
  • Sureties
• Handle matters involving construction defects, contract disputes, project delays, on-site injuries, mechanic's liens, and payment disputes
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, discovery, and other litigation documents
• Manage written discovery and take and defend depositions
• Handle court appearances, mediations, settlement conferences, and other proceedings
• Participate in trial preparation and case strategy
• Communicate directly with clients, experts, opposing counsel, and other parties throughout the litigation process
• Independently manage multiple matters and litigation deadlines

Qualifications

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active California Bar membership in good standing
• 5–7 years of construction defense litigation or closely related experience
• Strong knowledge of construction law, contracts, and dispute resolution
• Excellent legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills
• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Ability to independently manage multiple cases and deadlines
• Self-motivated with the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced litigation practice
• Demonstrated ability to achieve favorable outcomes for clients
• Availability for occasional travel as needed

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $130,000–$200,000, depending on experience
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Retirement plan
• Student loan assistance
• Paid onsite parking or transit pass
• Approximately 3:1 attorney-to-paralegal support ratio
• Professional development and advancement opportunities
• Mentorship from senior associates and partners

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Handle sophisticated construction disputes involving private and public works projects
• Work with an established construction litigation team with significant trial experience
• Represent a diverse client base across virtually every segment of the construction industry
• Gain meaningful responsibility across the full lifecycle of litigation, including trial and appellate matters
• Receive direct mentorship from experienced senior attorneys and partners
• Strong administrative and paralegal support
• Collaborative environment with opportunities for long-term professional growth

Work Arrangement

Orange County, CA | Flexible Work Arrangements Available

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.