GL - Auto Defense Litigation Attorney

Wilson Elser - Attorneys; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 155,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous PTO

401(k) match

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Corporate discount programs

Job summary

Wilson Elser - Attorneys is hiring an Auto Defense Litigation Attorney in San Diego. This role requires 3-8 years of defense litigation experience, JD from an ABA accredited law school, and admission to practice in California.

You will independently manage litigation caseloads, work with a collaborative team, and handle all aspects of litigation, while enjoying a flexible hybrid work arrangement.

Join a nationally recognized law firm that values professional development and offers a competitive salary package.

Qualifications

• 3-8 years of defense litigation experience, preferably in Personal Injury, General Liability, Catastrophic Injury, or Transportation.
• Proven ability to manage complex matters and client-facing responsibilities.
• Familiarity with legal project management is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Independently manage a diverse litigation caseload from inception through resolution.
• Handle all aspects of litigation, including trial preparation, investigation, court appearances, mediations, and depositions.
• Provide timely case updates and strategic guidance to clients through regular reporting.

Skills

Defense litigation experience

Exceptional communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Client relationship building

Education

JD from an ABA accredited law school

Admitted to practice 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.

At Wilson Elser we are committed to attracting and retaining professionals who thrive in an environment built on teamwork, collaboration, client service, and innovation. If you are a motivated attorney seeking a long‑term career where your contributions are valued and your growth is supported, we invite you to apply for our Auto Defense Litigation Attorney position in our San Diego, Los Angeles, or Orange County office.

This position offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement.

Opportunity

We are seeking a skilled Auto Defense Litigation Attorney. The ideal candidate will have experience in general liability, personal injury, transportation, and/or catastrophic injury defense. This role offers meaningful hands‑on litigation experience, exposure to high‑profile national clients, and the ability to take on substantial responsibility from day one.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently manage a diverse litigation caseload from inception through resolution
• Work closely with partners and colleagues in a collaborative, team‑oriented environment
• Handle all aspects of litigation, including trial preparation, investigation, court appearances, mediations, and depositions
• Provide timely case updates and strategic guidance to clients through regular reporting and direct communication

Qualifications

• JD from an ABA accredited law school
• Admitted to practice in California
• 3-8 years of defense litigation experience, preferably in Personal Injury, General Liability, Catastrophic Injury, or Transportation
• Exceptional communication, writing, and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to build strong client relationships and deliver outstanding service
• Experience with client‑facing responsibilities and managing complex matters is highly valued
• Ability to integrate into a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment
• Familiarity with legal project management is a plus

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.

Salary Range: $155,000 - $210,000 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, 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.