Associate Attorney - Public Entity Defense

About the role

Bremer Whyte Brown & O'Meara, LLP is seeking a Litigation Associate to join its award‑winning Public Entity litigation team in Newport Beach. The position offers immediate hands‑on experience defending public entities in matters such as dangerous conditions, premises liability, sexual abuse, personal injury/catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and more. The role provides a platform for professional growth through close collaboration with team members and mentorship from experienced partners.

Responsibilities

• Defend public entities in litigation matters involving dangerous conditions, premises liability, sexual abuse, personal injury/catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and other related issues.
• Handle every phase of cases from inception to resolution, including legal strategy, research, drafting pleadings and motions, managing discovery, arguing motions in court, attending mediations, and trial.
• Collaborate closely with team members and receive mentorship from experienced partners.

Requirements

• 2+ years of civil litigation experience, preferably handling general liability, construction, personal/catastrophic injury, contracts/business, or commercial disputes.
• Current admission to the California State Bar.
• Experience preparing pleadings, propounding and responding to discovery, drafting motions and legal briefs, taking and defending depositions, communicating with clients and opposing counsel, and appearing in court.
• Arbitration and/or trial experience (preferred but not required).
• Experience supervising law clerks and junior associates (a plus).
• Exceptional communication and advocacy skills, client‑focused mindset, and a passion for achieving successful outcomes.
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Fully remote and hybrid options available; remote candidates must reside in Southern California.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation plus performance‑based bonus plan.
• Generous medical insurance (HMO/PPO) – employer‑paid premium up to 95% and employer‑funded HRA for PPO plans.
• Dental insurance – employer‑paid premium up to 100%.
• Vision coverage.
• Wellness incentives, including fitness discounts and rewards program.
• Life insurance.
• Pet insurance.
• Unlimited Time Off program.
• 12 paid holidays.
• 401(k) plan.
• Inclusive and diverse workplace that promotes career development and a healthy work‑life balance.

Compensation

The expected base salary range is $135,000 – $200,000, with actual compensation determined based on experience. This does not include the performance‑based bonus plan.

About the firm

Bremer Whyte Brown & O'Meara (BWB&O) is a mid‑sized law firm recognized for six consecutive years in the U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms” rankings. With 200 attorneys across nine offices in four states, the firm delivers exceptional legal services across a broad range of practice areas and is committed to excellence, innovation, and client dedication.