Senior Counsel (Complex Trial)

Tyson & Mendes; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) program with matching contributions

Flexible vacation policy

Monthly technology reimbursement

Job summary

A prominent law firm in Los Angeles is looking for a Senior Counsel to lead complex insurance defense trials. Candidates must have a Juris Doctor from an accredited law school, an active California bar license, and over 8 years of experience in insurance litigation. The role involves developing case strategies, managing trial processes, and collaborating with clients and expert witnesses. This position offers a competitive salary range of $160,000 to $190,000 annually, along with comprehensive benefits and potential bonuses.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in insurance defense litigation with a focus on complex trial work.
• Demonstrated success as lead trial counsel in multiple high-stakes cases.
• Proven ability to manage and prioritize a large, demanding caseload with limited oversight.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex trials in high-exposure insurance defense cases.
• Develop and execute case strategies.
• Collaborate with expert witnesses to strengthen case arguments.

Skills

oral advocacy

legal writing

negotiation skills

client relationship management

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

Tools

e-discovery tools

case management software

Job description

Join Tyson & Mendes – Senior Counsel, Complex Trial Teams. An active bar license in California is required.

We are expanding our Complex Trial Teams and seeking accomplished Senior Counsel ready to make an impact in the courtroom and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex trials in high‑exposure insurance defense cases, including catastrophic injury, wrongful death, property damage, and professional liability.
• Develop and execute case strategies, including risk assessment, discovery, motion practice, and trial preparation.
• Work closely with clients, insurance carriers, and adjusters to provide clear legal advice and updates on case developments.
• Oversee all litigation stages: pleadings, discovery, depositions, pre‑trial motions, and settlement negotiations.
• Serve as lead counsel in jury trials, bench trials, and mediations, presenting cases effectively and persuasively.
• Supervise and mentor junior attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, ensuring high‑quality work and compliance with best practices.
• Collaborate with expert witnesses (medical, forensic, engineering, economic) to strengthen case arguments.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in California and eligibility to practice in federal courts.
• 8+ years of experience in insurance defense litigation with a focus on complex trial work.
• Demonstrated success as lead trial counsel in multiple high‑stakes cases.
• Strong knowledge of civil procedure, tort law, insurance law, and trial strategies.
• Proven ability to manage and prioritize a large, demanding caseload with limited oversight.
• Exceptional oral advocacy, legal writing, and negotiation skills.
• Strong client relationship management skills and the ability to communicate complex legal strategies effectively.
• Background in catastrophic injury, construction defect, or professional liability cases preferred.
• Experience with e‑discovery tools and case management software.
• Membership in local or national trial lawyer associations is a plus.

Compensation

• Base salary: $160,000 – $190,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Eligible for an annual billable hours bonus from $10,000 upward, tiered at $7,500 for each additional tier.
• Comprehensive benefits coverage at zero employee cost (average employer contribution $700–$1,700).
• 401(k) program: 100% match on the first 3% contributed and 50% match on the following 4–5%.
• Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan ($100–$200/month after one year).
• Paid parental leave at base pay.
• Monthly technology reimbursement of $60.

Benefits

• Employee Assistance Program.
• In‑house training and leadership development opportunities.
• Firm‑provided CLE programs and paid bar license renewal fees.
• Flexible vacation policy for attorneys.
• Defined pathway to partnership.
• Internal diversity and inclusion programs (Women’s Initiative, Young Professionals Initiative).
• Firm‑wide charitable giving program.
• Social and off‑site events each year.
• Flexible work model: remote, hybrid, or onsite options available.

Equal Opportunity Employer Notice

Tyson & Mendes is an equal employment opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or harass on the basis of race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history, genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any non‑merit‑based factor. All applicants and employees are treated with respect and fairness. We collect certain information about you for the purposes of employment and compliance with applicable laws.