A confidential California boutique is seeking an associate attorney to support a busy land use, zoning, and CEQA practice, including a mix of administrative approvals work and targeted writ litigation. This role offers meaningful responsibility, frequent writing, and direct involvement in high-impact entitlement matters across the Greater Los Angeles area.
WHY THIS OPPORTUNITY STANDS OUT
- Blend of land use entitlement strategy and writs of mandate litigation in a single practice.
- Hybrid schedule with in-office collaboration two days per week.
- Clear advancement potential, including a partnership track for strong performers.
- Billable hours target of 1,200.
- Objective bonus structure tied to productivity and client generation.
THE ROLE
- Advise on land use entitlement and administrative processes, including zoning analysis and approvals strategy.
- Conduct land use due diligence and prepare clear written analysis for clients and stakeholders.
- Draft letters and written submissions to decision makers and agencies.
- Attend and support administrative hearings and related proceedings.
- Handle writs of mandate and related land use litigation tasks, including drafting petitions and appellate-style briefs (opening, opposition, and reply).
- Support CEQA-related strategy and documentation in coordination with the broader matter team.
LOCATION, SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION
Hybrid, in office 2 days per week
Compensation:
Base salary range: $180,000 to $250,000
REQUIREMENTS
- Active California Bar admission in good standing.
- Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
- 3 to 15 years of relevant experience in land use and zoning administrative processes (including zoning analysis, due diligence, drafting letters to decision makers, and attending hearings).
- Litigation experience with writs of mandate, petitions, and appellate-style briefing (opening, opposition, and reply briefs).
- Direct familiarity and experience with CEQA.
- Strong legal writing, analytical skills, and professional judgment.
- Demonstrated stability and consistent progression in career history.
PREFERRED BACKGROUND
- Portable business or demonstrated ability to originate approximately 20 to 40 billable hours per month.
- Experience in a larger-firm environment with interest in a boutique platform.
- Solo or small-firm practitioners with strong relevant experience who value collaboration.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
- Performance bonuses via an objective formula rewarding productivity and client generation (examples: $20,000 to $40,000 annually).
- 401(k).
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- National holidays off.
- Flexible remote work options consistent with the hybrid schedule.