Environmental Litigation Associate (1-5 years)

Direct Counsel; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits package

Performance-based bonuses

Opportunities for professional development

Job summary

Direct Counsel is looking for a Litigation Associate to join a respected firm in Los Angeles, specializing in environmental law. This role offers opportunities for substantive litigation experience, mentorship, and a balanced work lifestyle with approximately 1900 billable hours. Ideal candidates have 1-5 years of litigation experience and a demonstrated interest in environmental law.

Compensation includes a competitive salary ranging from $140,000 to $180,000, along with a tiered bonus structure and full benefits package.

Qualifications

• 1–5 years of litigation experience.
• Must be admitted to the California Bar.
• Background in litigation or insurance defense preferred.
• Experience with depositions, discovery, and motion practice.

Responsibilities

• Manage meaningful, substantive matters in environmental litigation.
• Take part in depositions and discovery.
• Draft pleadings, briefs, and correspondence.
• Interact with clients and experts.

Skills

Litigation experience

Depositions

Discovery

Motion practice

Interest in environmental law

Education

Admitted to the California Bar

Job description

High-Quality Caseload | Strong Mentorship

Direct Counsel is partnering with a highly respected boutique law firm in Burbank to identify a Litigation Associate for its growing Environmental Law Department. This is an excellent opportunity for a junior to mid-level attorney seeking substantive litigation experience, meaningful mentorship, and a more balanced practice environment.

*Prior environmental law experience is NOT required - the firm offers strong training and mentorship for the right candidate*

About the Role

This position is focused on environmental litigation, working directly with a partner who maintains a lean, high-quality caseload. Associates will take on meaningful, substantive matters while gaining hands‑on experience across all phases of litigation.

You’ll be involved in

• Depositions (taking and defending)
• Discovery and motion practice
• Drafting pleadings, briefs, and correspondence
• Client and expert interaction

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Substantive Work Early – Manage meaningful cases, not high-volume busywork
• Structured Training – Includes internal environmental law coursework + technical training
• Balanced Lifestyle – ~1900 billable hours with no "grind culture"
• Growing Practice – Expanding team with strong pipeline of incoming matters

Qualifications

• 1–5 years of litigation experience
• Must be admitted to the California Bar
• Background in litigation or insurance defense preferred
• Experience with depositions, discovery, and motion practice
• Demonstrated interest in environmental law or complex technical litigation
• Seeking long-term growth and stability
• Emphasis on working smart vs. excessive hours
• Respect for personal time and sustainable workload

Compensation

• $140,000 – $180,000 base salary (DOE)
• Tiered bonus structure
• Long-term growth within a stable, expanding practice

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses
• Full benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and 401(k)
• Supportive, team-oriented environment with opportunities for professional development
• Meaningful work with a firm that values integrity, collaboration, and client service

Interested?

Apply with your resume and writing sample.