Associate General Counsel - Litigation

ffres; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Fairfield, a leader in the multifamily housing sector, seeks an Associate General Counsel - Litigation to manage Fairfield's litigation portfolio and advise on risk across property operations, development, and general contracting activities. This role is based at our corporate office in San Diego, CA, with a hybrid work arrangement requiring in-office attendance near the Sorrento Valley area.

You will collaborate with executive leadership and business teams to protect the organization's

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active California state bar member in good standing.
• Admission to practice law in California is required.
• At least 10 years of litigation experience in mid-sized/large firms or corporate settings.
• Experience handling construction, contract, premises liability, and related claims is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage litigation and dispute resolution across the portfolio.
• Direct litigation strategy in collaboration with outside counsel.
• Handle construction, contract, and operational disputes.
• Develop risk management policies and monitor insurance obligations.
• Partner with executive leadership to align legal strategies with business goals.

Skills

Litigation management

Risk management

Portfolio management

Communication

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

Admission to California Bar

Job description

About Fairfield

If you're driven and looking for a collaborative workplace that makes a difference, you just might be a fit for Fairfield! We are a leader in the multifamily housing industry and we're passionate about creating exceptional apartment living. As we continue to grow, we're dedicated to investing in our people. Our culture is built on trust, support, and the drive to do great work. Whether you're launching your career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to make an impact, develop your skills, and be part of something bigger. Come build your future with us!

About the Role

The Associate General Counsel - Litigation serves as a key legal advisor responsible for managing Fairfield's litigation portfolio and supporting risk management initiatives across property operations, construction, development, and general contracting activities. This role partners closely with executive leadership and business teams to protect the organization's interests while balancing legal strategy with business objectives.

This position is based at our corporate office in San Diego, CA, with a hybrid work arrangement that includes regular in-office attendance. To support this schedule, candidates must be located within commuting distance of our Sorrento Valley office.

What You'll Do

Below is a snapshot of what this role is all about. While there is more to it, this is the core focus.

Litigation Management

• Manage and oversee litigation and dispute resolution matters across the portfolio.
• Direct litigation and settlement strategy in partnership with outside counsel.
• Handle construction, contract, premises liability, habitability, fair housing, and related claims.
• Provide regular updates regarding litigation exposure, status, and outcomes.

Risk Management & Insurance

• Partner with risk management to evaluate coverage for litigation matters.
• Coordinate with insurers and third-party administrators on claims and coverage issues.
• Analyze contractual risk transfer provisions, indemnification requirements, and insurance obligations.
• Monitor litigation trends and recommend risk mitigation strategies.

Construction & Operational Disputes

• Manage construction defect, contractor, subcontractor, and design professional disputes.
• Support resolution of claims through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation.
• Advise on mechanic's liens, contract disputes, and operational claims.
• Collaborate with business teams to reduce recurring legal risks.

Compliance & Policy Development

• Research and interpret laws and regulations impacting multifamily operations.
• Monitor legal developments and update policies and practices accordingly.
• Develop procedures and training materials designed to reduce claims and support compliance.
• Partner with stakeholders to strengthen loss prevention initiatives.

Leadership & Partnership

• Serve as a trusted legal advisor to executive leadership and business teams.
• Collaborate with operations, construction, development, property management, and risk management teams.
• Align legal recommendations with business objectives and enterprise risk considerations.
• Support a proactive approach to legal risk management throughout the organization.

Why You'll Love Fairfield

We're all about creating communities that people are proud to call home. Being a part of Fairfield means more than a rewarding career with personal growth. It's a partnership, working alongside colleagues in an open-dialogue environment that encourages growth and the sharing of ideas. We know that our associates are a key ingredient to our success, and we're proud to reflect that in our culture.

Driven by Vision : We are a vertically integrated operator and investment manager in the multifamily sector with in-house development, construction, acquisition, and property and asset management services. As we continue to grow, we want you to grow with us.

Career Growth & Learning : Fairfield values new ideas at every level. We offer training, coaching, and mentoring to help associates develop their careers and inspire them to create change for the better.

Culture of Collaboration : Enjoy a professional, supportive environment where we work together to drive meaningful impact.

A Company that Cares : We are proud to offer robust benefit packages with a focus on both quality of care and affordability. We offer competitive compensation plans, 401(k) matching, and paid time off, including sick days and volunteer time off (VTO) to support causes that matter to you.

What We're Looking For

Education & Certifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in good standing with at least one state bar.
• Admission to practice law in California required.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of litigation experience at a mid-sized or large law firm, corporate legal department, or a combination of both, with at least 3 years of in-house or portfolio-level litigation m