Defense Litigation Associate — High-Stakes Cases & Growth

Orionplacement; Carlsbad (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Dental insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Vision insurance

Job summary

A well-established litigation firm in Carlsbad, CA seeks an attorney with a California Bar license and 3+ years of litigation experience. Ideal candidates will have experience in medical malpractice or general liability defense. This role involves handling defense litigation, drafting legal documents, and attending court hearings in a supportive team environment. Strong benefits and mentorship opportunities are included, making it a great position for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Must have an active California Bar license.
• 3+ years of litigation experience required.
• Experience in medical malpractice defense and/or general liability defense preferred.

Responsibilities

• Handle defense litigation matters from pre-trial through trial.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, briefs, and other legal documents.
• Attend court hearings, depositions, mediations, trials, and client meetings.
• Analyze legal issues and evaluate case strategy.
• Communicate effectively with clients and internal team members.

Skills

Litigation experience

Strong legal writing

Analytical skills

Oral advocacy

Team-oriented approach

Education

JD from an accredited law school

Active California Bar membership

Job description

Pay: $125,000.00 - $155,000.00 per year

Why This Is a Great Opportunity

• Join a respected litigation team handling sophisticated, high-stakes defense matters
• Work closely with seasoned trial attorneys who provide real mentorship and real courtroom exposure
• Take ownership of meaningful case work while still having strong team support
• Build your career in a collaborative office where smart, hardworking attorneys can grow
• Enjoy strong benefits, bonus potential, and a practice that offers variety and challenge

Location: Carlsbad, CA. This is a primarily on-site role with built-in flexibility due to court appearances, depositions, and case-related travel, offering autonomy with a collaborative office presence.

Note: Must have an active California Bar license and 3+ years of litigation experience. Medical malpractice defense and/or general liability defense experience is strongly preferred.

About Us

We are a well-established litigation firm known for handling complex, high-exposure defense matters with a client-focused approach. Our team values strong advocacy, professionalism, collaboration, and practical mentorship. Confidential Employer.

Job Description

• Handle defense litigation matters from pre-trial through trial
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, briefs, and other legal documents
• Attend court hearings, depositions, mediations, trials, and client meetings
• Analyze legal issues, evaluate case strategy, and support strong case outcomes
• Partner with senior attorneys and paralegals in a collaborative team environment
• Manage case responsibilities with increasing independence
• Communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, experts, and internal team members
• Contribute to client service and support long-term relationship development

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school
• Active California Bar membership
• 3+ years of litigation experience
• Experience in medical malpractice defense and/or general liability defense preferred
• Strong knowledge of state and federal court rules and procedures
• Strong legal writing, research, and analytical skills
• Strong oral advocacy, deposition, and communication skills
• Professional, personable, and team-oriented approach

Why You Will Love Working Here

You will be part of a collaborative litigation team that values mentorship, substantive responsibility, and long-term growth. This is an opportunity to sharpen your skills on meaningful defense matters while working alongside accomplished trial attorneys who are invested in your development. The role also offers strong benefits, bonus potential, and a professional environment where attorneys are trusted to do high-level work.

JPC-820

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance