Labor and Employment Attorney | School Districts

Title: Labor and Employment Attorney | Public Education Trial Defense Specialist (Senior Attorney, or Partner)Location: Fully Remote (Must reside in California)Employment Type: Full-time, W-2Reports To: Managing Partner About Michael Sullivan & Associates LLPMichael Sullivan & Associates LLP is a premier California law firm with a statewide reputation for legal excellence in labor and employment, workers' compensation, education law, and subrogation. Founded in 1996, our team of over 200 professionals is known for its strategic litigation, high-quality legal work, and exceptional culture. We are a certified Amazing Workplace, offering a collaborative, remote-first environment that values growth, mentorship, and work-life balance. Position OverviewWe seek an experienced Labor & Employment Attorney with at least 8 years of litigation experience, including substantial work representing California school districts and other public education entities in trial defense. This is an excellent opportunity for a strategic litigator ready to step into a leadership role and make an impact in a high-performing, supportive firm.This position is fully remote, but candidates must reside in California and be licensed to practice in the state. You will work closely with school district clients, internal litigation teams, and firm leadership to aggressively defend high-stakes employment and education claims across California. Key ResponsibilitiesDefend school districts, county offices of education, and community college districts in employment-related litigation, including wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, whistleblower, and constitutional claimsTake a lead role in all stages of litigation, from investigation to trial, including discovery, depositions, dispositive motions, mediation, administrative hearings, and trial strategyAdvise district clients on California Education Code compliance, certificated and classified employee discipline, leaves, accommodations, and personnel mattersRepresent districts in matters before the Office of Administrative Hearings, the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB), the Commission on Professional Competence, DFEH/CRD, EEOC, and California state and federal courtsHandle Government Claims Act tort defense, Brown Act and Public Records Act issues, and related public-entity litigationDraft high-quality legal documents, including demurrers, MSJs, oppositions, mediation briefs, administrative pleadings, and trial motionsCollaborate with managing attorneys and associates to ensure efficient case strategy and executionStay current on changes in California education and public-sector employment law, including developments affecting K-12 and higher education employers Qualifications8+ years of experience in labor and employment litigation in CaliforniaSignificant experience representing California school districts or other public education entities in trial defense (please detail in your application)Working knowledge of the California Education Code, Government Code, and the unique procedural framework governing public-sector employersLicensed and in good standing with the California State BarProven track record in civil litigation, including successful motion practice, depositions, administrative hearings, and courtroom appearancesExcellent analytical, research, and writing skillsStrong communication and interpersonal skills for managing client relationships with district administrators, HR leaders, and governing board membersHighly organized and able to manage a remote workload with autonomy and accountability CompensationSalary: $235,000 – $300,000, depending on experience and trial backgroundEmployment Attorney Unlimited PTO Bonus ProgramAccelerated Partner Track Detailed Benefits PackagesUnlimited PTO + 11 Paid HolidaysComprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision & Pet InsuranceFirm-paid Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance401(k) with 10% Employer Match (after 1 year)Cell phone reimbursement & employee discountsOptional office space available across California Interview Process1-hour phone call with Managing Partner1-hour call with Michael SullivanOffer extended Join Michael Sullivan & Associates LLP and bring your public education defense expertise to a team that values skill, supports autonomy, and rewards success.