Associate Attorney (Employment Defense)

tysonmendesllp; Fresno (CA); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible work model

CLE & Bar renewal fees

Student loan assistance

Technology stipend

Parental leave

Job summary

Tyson & Mendes, a leading defense-litigation firm in California, seeks a Lit igation Associate to join our hybrid/remote flexible team. The ideal candidate is a licensed California attorney with 3–7 years of solid litigation experience, including case strategy, depositions, and trial preparation, and who can manage a full caseload with minimal supervision.

You will develop compelling case strategies, handle court appearances, motions, and trials, and mentor junior attorneys while delivering

Qualifications

• JD from ABA-accredited law school.
• Active California Bar license.
• 3–7 years of solid litigation experience including case strategy, depositions, and trial preparation.
• 2+ years employment defense experience strongly preferred.
• Ability to independently manage a full caseload from discovery through trial.
• Prior insurance defense experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop compelling case strategies that drive results.
• Independently manage court appearances, depositions, motion practice, and trials.
• Collaborate with attorneys and staff at all experience levels.
• Maintain consistent and professional communication with clients.
• Build and nurture relationships with existing and prospective clients.
• Mentor and guide junior attorneys to support team growth.

Skills

Litigation strategy

Court appearances

Deposition experience

Trial prep

Client communication

Team collaboration

Mentorship

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) from ABA-accredited law school

Tools

MS Word

Outlook

PowerPoint

Job description

Litigation Associate

Location: California (Hybrid/Remote Flexible) Requirement: Active California Bar License

Why Tyson & Mendes?

• Accelerated Career Growth - We invest in your development through Trial Academy, mentorship, and hands-on litigation opportunities that position you for long-term success.
• Innovative Defense Approach - Be part of a firm leading the industry in combating Nuclear Verdicts® with proven strategies and cutting-edge tools.
• Flexible Hybrid Work Environment - We offer true flexibility-work in-office, remotely, or a hybrid model that supports both performance and work-life balance.
• Collaborative, People-First Culture - Join a team that values partnership, inclusion, and shared success across offices nationwide.

Who You Are

You are driven to win and defend justice with integrity, courage, and precision. Strategic and confident in your approach, you navigate complex legal challenges with a clear, defense-minded perspective. You follow the rules while thinking several steps ahead-like any strong litigator should. Passionate about trial work and dedicated to exceptional client service, you strive to make a meaningful impact in every case. You're also eager to grow, collaborate, and contribute to a high-performing legal team that values excellence, inclusion, and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Develop compelling case strategies that cut through emotional arguments and drive results
• Set a higher standard-challenge mediocrity and push for excellence in every aspect of your work
• Independently manage court appearances, depositions, motion practice, and trials
• Collaborate seamlessly with attorneys and staff at all experience levels
• Maintain consistent and professional communication with clients
• Build and nurture relationships with existing and prospective clients
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior attorneys, contributing to team growth and success

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active bar license in the state of California
• 3-7 years of solid litigation experience, including case strategy, depositions, and trial preparation
• 2+ years employment defense experience strongly preferred
• Ability to independently manage a full caseload, from discovery through trial
• Prior insurance defense experience preferred
• Familiarity with litigation timekeeping and billing systems
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint
• Self-motivated with strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities
• Professional appearance and demeanor

Compensation Package

• The base salary for this position ranges from $115,000-$160,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications
• Attorneys are eligible for an annual billable hours bonus ranging from $10,000 and then aggregating with $7,500 for every additional tier
• Comprehensive benefits coverage offered, including plans available at zero employee cost (average annual employer contribution for health/vision/dental/life coverage is $700-$1,700)
• Employees benefit from a 401(k) program that includes a 100% match on the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4-5%
• Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan (full-time attorneys after one year with the firm) $100-$200/month
• Paid parental leave at base pay
• Employees receive a monthly technology reimbursement of $60

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program through HealthAdvocate
• Comprehensive in-house training and leadership development opportunities
• Firm Provided CLE Programs and Paid Bar License Renewal Fees
• Flexible vacation policy for attorneys
• Defined pathway to partnership
• Internal diversity and inclusion programs, such as the Women's Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative
• Firm-wide charitable giving program
• Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues
• Flexible Work Model: Remote, hybrid, or onsite options available

About Tyson & Mendes

We’re one of the fastest