Construction & Complex Liability Litigation Attorney

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.

About the role

This role focuses on defending clients in complex liability matters, including construction defect, premises liability, catastrophic injury, general liability, and other complex civil litigation matters. The attorney will work with a team representing developers, general contractors, subcontractors, design professionals, property owners, businesses, and other insured and self-insured clients.

This position may be structured at the Associate or Senior Attorney level, depending on experience. We welcome candidates with 3+ years of litigation experience, as well as more senior attorneys who are comfortable independently managing complex matters. The position offers a flexible hybrid working arrangement.

Responsibilities

• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, legal memoranda, discovery, and other legal documents
• Handle court appearances, depositions, mediations, and other litigation events
• Manage a litigation caseload as part of a collaborative team, with level of independence based on experience
• Develop case strategy, evaluate liability and damages, and work toward efficient resolution of matters
• Communicate with clients, carriers, experts, opposing counsel, and witnesses
• Prepare status reports, case evaluations, and other client-facing updates
• Collaborate with attorneys across offices and practice areas, contributing to a cohesive and supportive team environment
• For senior candidates, independently manage complex matters and help mentor more junior attorneys, as appropriate

Requirements

• JD from an ABA-accredited law school
• Admitted to practice in California
• 3+ years of litigation experience required
• Defense litigation experience strongly preferred
• Candidates with construction defect, general liability, premises liability, catastrophic injury, transportation, or related complex litigation experience are encouraged to apply
• Experience drafting discovery, pleadings, dispositive motions, and pretrial motions required
• Experience handling court appearances, depositions, mediations, and expert discovery preferred
• Experience cross-examining plaintiffs, fact witnesses, and/or experts preferred
• Trial or second-chair trial experience a plus
• Superior analytical, writing, and communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage competing deadlines
• Ability to work independently while also contributing to a collaborative team environment

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with match
• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Generous PTO
• Discretionary bonuses
• Corporate discount programs and employee benefits
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement

Pay

Salary Range: $155,000 USD - $250,000 USD. 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.

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