Litigation Attorney

About the Role:
The Associate Attorney role is an opportunity for a litigation attorney to support complex civil defense matters in Irvine, California. This position focuses on Premises Liability, Products Liability, General Liability, and Construction Defect litigation. The Associate Attorney will manage cases from inception through resolution, collaborate with senior attorneys, and develop strong litigation skills in a fast paced legal environment. Common search terms include Associate Attorney, Litigation Attorney, Civil Defense Attorney, Insurance Defense Attorney, and Construction Defect Attorney.

Responsibilities:

• Handle a full caseload of civil litigation matters involving premises liability, products liability, general liability, and construction defect claims.

• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and legal memoranda in compliance with California civil procedure.

• Conduct legal research and provide strategic analysis on liability, damages, and coverage related issues.

• Manage discovery, including depositions of parties, witnesses, experts, and corporate representatives.

• Participate in mediations, settlement conferences, and negotiations with opposing counsel.

• Prepare for and assist with trial, including witness preparation and trial strategy support.

• Communicate effectively with clients, insurers, experts, and internal legal teams.

• Maintain accurate case documentation and meet all litigation deadlines.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school.

• Active admission to the California State Bar in good standing.

• Prior experience in civil litigation, with exposure to premises liability, products liability, general liability, or construction defect matters.

• Strong knowledge of California civil procedure, discovery rules, and motion practice.

• Proven legal research and writing skills with attention to detail.

• Ability to manage multiple cases and priorities in a deadline driven environment.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem solving skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Two or more years of experience as an associate attorney in insurance defense or complex civil litigation.

• Experience handling depositions, mediations, and law and motion independently.

• Familiarity with expert discovery, including engineering, construction, or product experts.

• Trial preparation or trial experience in California state or federal courts.

• Experience working with insurance carriers and understanding coverage related issues.