Construction Defect Litigator

Wilson Elser (Attorney Careers); Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 185,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) match

Hybrid/remote work option

Job summary

Wilson Elser in the Los Angeles area is seeking an experienced Construction Defect Litigator to defend developers, general contractors, subcontractors and design professionals in complex matters. The role requires a strong litigation background and the ability to manage cases from inception to resolution with clear written and oral advocacy.

We offer a flexible hybrid or remote working arrangement and a competitive compensation package, including a salary range of $185,000-$230,000 USD and

Qualifications

• 5+ years of defense litigation experience.
• Construction defect practice experience preferred.
• Experience drafting discovery and pretrial motions.
• Experience cross-examining plaintiffs and fact witnesses preferred.
• Trial experience, including 2nd chair, a plus.

Responsibilities

• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other legal documents.
• Attend court hearings, depositions, and mediations.
• Collaborate with colleagues across departments and offices.
• Independently manage a litigation caseload from inception through resolution.
• Communicate with clients and provide status updates.

Skills

Strong written communication

Strong oral communication

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Education

J.D. ABA accredited

Admitted in California

Job description

At Wilson Elser, we are redefining what it means to work at a national law firm. With more than 1,400 attorneys across 46 offices nationwide, we are recognized among the top 100 law firms by The American Lawyer and ranked #36 in the National Law Journal’s survey of the nation’s largest law firms.

Our continued success is built on a culture of collaboration, innovation, client service, and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering an environment where attorneys are empowered to grow their careers, contribute meaningfully, and thrive professionally.

Our firm is committed to attracting and retaining professionals who value each other and the service we provide by embracing teamwork, collaboration, client service, and innovation. If you are a motivated professional looking for a long‑term fit where you can grow in a role, and will be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply to our Construction Defect Litigator position in our Los Angeles/Orange County Office.

This position offers a flexible, hybrid or remote working arrangement.

The Position

This role focuses on defending developers, general contractors, subcontractors, and design professionals in complex construction defect matters. The ideal candidate will have strong litigation experience, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to manage cases from inception through resolution.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, legal memoranda, and other legal documents
• Attend court hearings, depositions, and mediations
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues across departments and offices, contributing to a cohesive and supportive team environment
• Independently manage a litigation caseload as part of a team, working cases from beginning to end
• Communicate with clients and provide status reports

Qualifications

• JD from an ABA accredited law school
• Admitted to practice in the state of California
• 5+ years of defense litigationrequired
• Construction defect practice experience strongly preferred
• Experience in construction law or related practice areas preferred
• Experience drafting discovery and pretrial motions required
• Experience cross‑examining plaintiffs and other fact witnesses preferred
• Experience handling court appearances, depositions, and trial experience a plus
• 2nd chair trial experience a plus
• Superior analytical skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills

Wilson Elser offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our attorneys both professionally and personally.

A variety of factors are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, education, licensure and/or certifications, geographic location, market demands, other business and organizational needs, and other factors permitted by law. This position is also eligible for discretionary bonuses. Final salary wages offered may be outside of this range based on other reasons and individual circumstances. This position is considered full‑time and therefore qualifies for benefits including 401(k) retirement savings plan, medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

Salary Range: $185,000 - $230,000 USD

Why Join Wilson Elser?

• Meaningful Work: Handle sophisticated matters alongside experienced attorneys and partners
• Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive team environment that values mentorship and professional development
• Advancement: Gain opportunities for long‑term growth within a nationally recognized firm
• Hybrid Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible hybrid work arrangement that supports work‑life balance
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, generous PTO, 401(k) match, and robust medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
• Additional Perks: Access to corporate discount programs and employee benefits

Wilson Elser is committed to a collegial work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. It is the Firm's policy that employment will be based on merit, qualifications, and competence. Further, employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicant's race, color, age, sex, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, physical or mental disability, status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking, past or present service in the uniformed services or application or obligation to serve in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected by law.