Employment Litigation Associate – Mid to Senior Level – Los Angeles or San Francisco

About the role

Davis Wright Tremaine LLP is seeking a mid-level associate with a minimum of three years’ experience to join its commercial litigation group in Los Angeles.

We prefer candidates with clerkship and law-firm experience, including managing cases; drafting and research responsibility for pleadings and contested motions (such as motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, preliminary injunction or class certification briefing); taking depositions; propounding written discovery and responses; and arguing motions. Candidates with experience or demonstrated interest in complex litigation—especially areas of focus such consumer class actions and other business litigation—preferred. We will also consider applicants with trademark and trade secret experience.

Excellent writing and oral advocacy skills are required. The candidate must be a member or pending member of the California State Bar.

Responsibilities

• Manage key aspects of complex litigation matters, including case strategy, discovery, motion practice, and trial preparation.
• Draft and argue substantive motions and briefs in state and federal court.
• Take and defend depositions and manage written discovery, including document review and production.
• Prepare pleadings, briefs, and other court filings with limited supervision.
• Collaborate with partners and clients to develop case strategy and provide practice, business-focused advice.
• Mentor and supervise junior associates and coordinate with litigation support teams.

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school.
• Admission to practice in California (or ability to obtain promptly).
• Minimum of 6 years of litigation experience, preferably in a law firm environment.
• Strong experience with motion practice, discovery, depositions, and case management.
• Excellent legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage multiple matters and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Why DWT

• Direct client exposure and meaningful responsibility.
• Collaborative, team-oriented environment with strong mentorship.
• Opportunity to work on sophisticated, high-profile litigation matters.
• A collaborative culture that supports professional development and long-term career growth.

Benefits

• The annualized salary range for this position in California is $255,000 to $330,000.
• Core Benefits: Full-time employees may be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including medical insurance (with an optional Health Savings Account), dental insurance, vision care, life insurance, and disability.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Full-time employees receive sick leave benefits in accordance with the appropriate state Sick & Safe Leave Policy. Attorneys generally take approximately three weeks of vacation annually, though the exact amount may vary depending on client and firm needs. The firm also provides 10 paid holidays each year.
• Additional Programs: Employees may participate in 401(k) retirement planning, Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Available voluntary benefits include accident, life, disability, long-term care, and pet insurance. Commuter and transit programs are also available.
• Full-time employees may also be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.