Public Entity Defense Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is representing an established and highly regarded civil litigation defense firm seeking a Public Entity Defense Associate Attorney to join its growing Orange County practice. This is an excellent opportunity to handle sophisticated matters involving municipalities, government agencies, and law enforcement entities while working directly with experienced litigators and trial attorneys.

The ideal candidate will have 3–5 years of litigation experience, with experience in public entity defense, government tort liability, civil rights defense, or related litigation strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Represent public agencies, municipalities, and other government entities in a broad range of litigation matters
• Handle matters involving:
  • Police liability and excessive force
  • Wrongful arrest and alleged law enforcement misconduct
  • Employment and labor defense, including discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination
  • Government tort liability
  • General tort and premises liability involving government-owned or maintained property
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other litigation documents involving complex public entity issues
• Review and analyze public records, discovery responses, and other documents for relevance, privilege, and compliance with applicable public records laws
• Handle all phases of litigation, including discovery, depositions, motion practice, trial preparation, and appeals
• Attend court appearances, settlement conferences, mediations, and hearings
• Prepare exhibits, witness materials, and trial materials
• Work directly with public entity clients, risk managers, opposing counsel, experts, and court personnel
• Assist in developing case strategy and achieving favorable outcomes for clients

Qualifications

• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active California Bar membership in good standing
• 3–5 years of litigation experience
• Public entity defense, government tort liability, or civil rights defense experience preferred
• Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills
• Ability to independently manage multiple cases, priorities, and deadlines
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Availability for occasional travel for depositions, hearings, and client meetings

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $130,000–$175,000, depending on experience
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Retirement plan
• Student loan assistance
• Paid office parking or transit pass
• Approximately 3:1 attorney-to-secretary support ratio
• Professional development and advancement opportunities

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Hybrid or remote flexibility available based on direct public entity defense experience
• Work on sophisticated public entity, law enforcement, civil rights, and government liability matters
• Meaningful mentorship from senior associates and partners
• Substantive case responsibility and court appearances
• Direct interaction with public agencies and government clients
• Strong administrative and secretarial support
• Clear opportunities for professional growth and advancement

Work Arrangement

Orange County, CA | Hybrid/Remote Flexibility Available Based on Public Entity Defense Experience

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