Litigation Associate - Sacramento or SF

About the role

We are a well-regarded California firm where associates handle sophisticated, complex litigation - and actually have a life outside work. If you want meaningful courtroom and motion-practice experience without the grind culture of a mega-firm, this is the role.

Responsibilities

• Own matters end-to-end across all phases: pre-litigation strategy, pleadings, discovery, law and motion, mediation, and trial preparation
• Draft high-quality motions, briefs, and discovery - including dispositive motions such as demurrers and motions for summary judgment
• Take and defend depositions, prepare witnesses, and manage written discovery responses
• Appear at hearings, case management conferences, mediations, and arbitrations
• Conduct complex legal research and deliver clear strategic analysis on business disputes
• Collaborate directly with partners and senior associates to develop case strategy and manage client relationships
• Coordinate trial preparation: exhibit lists, witness outlines, expert coordination, and case-theme development

Requirements

• J.D. from an accredited law school and active California State Bar membership in good standing
• 2-6 years of substantive general civil litigation experience
• Demonstrated ability to draft and argue both dispositive and non-dispositive motions
• Experience managing cases through discovery, motion practice, and mediation
• Exceptional legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills, with a collaborative and client-focused approach
• 1750 minimum billable hours

Qualifications

• Trial experience (first or second chair)
• Experience with complex business litigation, commercial disputes, or employment matters
• Familiarity with California state court practice and local rules in Sacramento or San Francisco

Pay

Base salary