Associate Attorney (Workers' Compensation Defense) - CA

Tom Trese; Agoura Hills (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employer-paid bar dues

Ongoing training support

Flexible work environment

Job summary

A California-based workers’ compensation defense law firm seeks a motivated Associate Attorney to represent employers and insurers. The position involves conducting legal research, drafting documents, and managing caseloads in a collaborative, technology-forward environment. Ideal candidates will have a JD or LLM, active Bar Admission in California, and 1–7 years of relevant experience. Competitive salary of $100,000 – $220,000 plus multiple bonus opportunities and comprehensive benefits package are offered.

Qualifications

• 1-7 years of substantive workers’ compensation defense experience required.
• Experience representing employers and insurers in workers’ compensation proceedings.
• Tech-savvy and comfortable working in a paperless practice environment.

Responsibilities

• Represent employers and insurers in workers' compensation matters.
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, and other legal documents.
• Attend hearings, depositions, and mediations as required.
• Manage caseloads efficiently while adhering to firm procedures and deadlines.

Skills

Legal research

Writing skills

Analytical skills

Client-focused communication

Organizational skills

Time management

Ability to identify complex issues

Education

JD or LLM from an accredited law school

Active Bar Admission in California

Job description

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION DEFENSE ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Locations: CA (Agoura Hills, Oxnard, Encino, Inland Empire, Long Beach, Orange County, Sacramento, San Diego)

IN-OFFICE, REMOTE OPTIONAL

Our client is a leading California-based workers’ compensation defense law firm seeking a motivated Associate Attorney to join the Workers’ Compensation Defense practice. This position offers opportunities to represent employers and insurers in a broad range of matters while working in a collaborative, technology-forward environment that prioritizes attorney development and work-life balance.

Candidate Profile

• JD or LLM from an accredited law school with an excellent academic record
• Active Bar Admission in California in good standing
• 1–7 years of substantive workers’ compensation defense experience required
• Experience representing employers and insurers in workers’ compensation proceedings
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
• Ability to identify and analyze complex legal issues and develop effective solutions
• Highly organized with strong time management and prioritization skills
• Tech-savvy and comfortable working in a paperless practice environment
• Proactive, client-focused professional with strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across teams

Key Responsibilities

• Represent employers and insurers in workers’ compensation matters
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, and other legal documents
• Attend hearings, depositions, and mediations as required
• Negotiate settlements on behalf of clients
• Manage caseloads efficiently while adhering to firm procedures and deadlines
• Collaborate with attorneys, staff, and clients to develop case strategy
• Build and maintain strong professional relationships with clients and colleagues

Why Join Us?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly-regarded workers’ compensation defense practice nationally recognized for its workplace culture and commitment to its people. The firm has earned top-tier rankings across multiple respected platforms, including placement among the Top 20 Fortune Best Workplaces for Women 2025, Top 10 Fortune Best Workplaces in Consulting & Professional Services 2025, and Top 50 2025 PEOPLE Companies that Care. Attorneys benefit from robust mentorship and training programs designed to accelerate professional growth, build substantive expertise, and support long-term career development. The firm places a strong emphasis on collaboration, open communication, and continuous learning, ensuring associates receive meaningful guidance and hands-on experience from experienced practitioners. The firm is deeply committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace where attorneys are valued for their unique perspectives and contributions. With a modern, technology-forward infrastructure and a culture that prioritizes balance, engagement, and advancement, this role provides an exceptional platform for associates seeking a stable, rewarding, and growth-oriented legal career.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive Salary: Annual base salary expected to range from $100,000 – $220,000, based on experience and qualifications
• Eligibility for multiple bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, vision, dental, short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, paid time off, and 401(k) retirement plan
• Additional Benefits: Employer-paid bar dues, CLEs, ongoing training support, and additional perks

Application Requirements

Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, law school transcript, and writing sample (10 pages max, substantially unedited by others) for consideration.

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer.