Mass Kanning Seeks a Governmental Entity Liability Associate

OCAABA; Costa Mesa (CA); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Manning Kass is seeking a Governmental Entity Liability Associate to join its California offices, including Costa Mesa. The ideal candidate has at least 2 years of civil litigation experience and is admitted to the California State Bar.

The role focuses on defending public entities in diverse cases, from case evaluation through trial, with emphasis on strategic, client-centered advocacy. Responsibilities include managing discovery, taking and defending depositions, developing litigation

Qualifications

• J.D. degree and active California State Bar membership in good standing.
• Strong written and verbal communication and advocacy skills.
• Excellent time management and ability to meet deadlines.
• Law enforcement, military, or criminal defense experience preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Manage discovery, including drafting/responding to requests and arguing discovery motions.
• Take and defend depositions.
• Develop and execute litigation strategies.
• Provide timely, accurate case reporting and maintain proactive client communication.
• Ensure compliance with client case management requirements.

Skills

Civil litigation

Client communication

Education

J.D. degree and California Bar

Job description

Mass Kanning Seeks a Governmental Entity Liability Associate

Manning Kass is a national civil litigation defense firm that stands out from the rest—every case and client matters. Established in 1994 with just sixteen attorneys, they have expanded over the past thirty years to more than 170 attorneys across eight offices, including major economic hubs like New York and Los Angeles.

For this opportunity, the Associate must have at least 2 years of civil litigation experience, to join the Governmental Entity Team/ Police Team. This specialized Team is known for representing public entities in a variety of cases, including dangerous condition claims, educational law, and law enforcement officer liability matters.

The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills and the ability to interact with clients, businesses and legal teams. Associates work closely with lead attorneys daily, engaging in all phases of litigation—from case evaluation to discovery through trial —focusing on strategic thinking to achieve client goals. They seek candidates who are eager to learn, highly self-motivated, and interested in long-term professional growth.

Responsibilities:

Manage discovery, including drafting/responding to requests and arguing discovery motions.

Take and defend depositions.

Develop and execute litigation strategies.

Provide timely, accurate case reporting and maintain proactive client communication.

Ensure compliance with client case management requirements.

Qualifications:

J.D. degree and active California State Bar membership in good standing.

Strong written and verbal communication and advocacy skills.

Excellent time management and ability to meet deadlines.

Law enforcement, military, or criminal defense experience preferred but not required.

Locations (California): Los Angeles, Costa Mesa, and Riverside.

Annual salary range with benefits: $125,000 - $180,000.

The Orange County Asian American Bar Association ("OCAABA") is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization.