Litigation Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Litigation Associate Attorney to join a growing civil litigation practice in Orange County. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with 3–7 years of litigation experience who is looking for hands-on responsibility, meaningful client interaction, and the opportunity to work on a broad range of complex defense matters.

The ideal candidate will have experience handling personal injury, premises liability, products liability, transportation, habitability, or other civil litigation matters and will be comfortable managing cases through all stages of litigation.

Responsibilities

• Defend clients in a variety of civil litigation matters, including:
  • Personal injury
  • Premises liability
  • Products liability
  • Transportation litigation
  • Habitability claims
• Conduct legal research and draft:
  • Pleadings
  • Motions
  • Briefs
  • Discovery responses
• Review and analyze documents for relevance, privilege, and case strategy
• Handle all phases of litigation, including:
  • Written discovery
  • Depositions
  • Motion practice
  • Trial preparation
• Appear at:
  • Court hearings
  • Settlement conferences
  • Mediations
• Prepare exhibits and case materials for depositions, hearings, and trial
• Communicate directly with clients, opposing counsel, experts, and court personnel
• Assist in developing litigation strategy and achieving favorable client outcomes

Qualifications

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active California Bar membership in good standing
• 3–7 years of litigation experience
• Experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Personal injury defense
  • Premises liability
  • Products liability
  • Transportation litigation
  • Habitability litigation
• Strong legal research and writing skills
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and oral advocacy abilities
• Knowledge of California civil procedure and court filing requirements
• Ability to manage multiple matters and deadlines effectively
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Demonstrated commitment to client service and case management

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $130,000 – $175,000
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Retirement plan
• Student loan assistance program
• Paid office parking or transit pass
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Professional development and advancement opportunities

Why This Opportunity

• Work directly with experienced litigators and trial attorneys
• Receive meaningful mentorship from senior associates and partners
• Handle substantive litigation responsibilities and court appearances
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to work on sophisticated, high-exposure litigation matters
• Clear path for professional growth and advancement

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