Medical Malpractice Defense Attorney

Hosted by Karyn Spies

About the firm

Founded over 60 years ago, we are one of the state's largest and most recognized civil defense firms known for defending physicians, hospitals, and healthcare organizations in complex, high-stakes litigation across medical malpractice, elder abuse, general liability, employment law, and products liability.

Why join us

• No billable requirement
• Large firm environment with the flexibility to utilize your strengths
• Multiple California offices with a well-established client base including insurance carriers, hospitals, and physician groups
• Work alongside experienced partners with a genuine investment in associate development
• First and second chair opportunities on complex medical malpractice matters
• Healthy work-life balance in a low-stress environment
• Associate bonus program with uncapped earning potential
• Fantastic suite of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance; medical expense reimbursement plan; and life insurance and short and long-term disability plans

Responsibilities

• Manage a full caseload of complex medical malpractice defense matters from pre-suit investigation through trial and appeal
• Represent physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare professionals in depositions, hearings, trials, and all related legal proceedings
• Serve as first or second chair trial counsel, including developing trial themes, opening statements, witness examinations, and closing arguments
• Lead trial preparation, including case strategy development and coordination with clients and insurance carriers
• Conduct and defend depositions of parties, witnesses, and expert witnesses
• Argue contested motions, evidentiary hearings, and case management conferences
• Direct settlement negotiations and mediations, leveraging trial readiness for optimal outcomes
• Provide strategic guidance and candid liability assessments to clients throughout the litigation process
• Retain, prepare, and examine medical expert witnesses
• Draft and respond to discovery requests, pleadings, motions, and briefs

Requirements

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Active California State Bar license in good standing (required)
• Minimum 5 years of litigation experience, with a strong preference for medical malpractice defense
• Proven first or second chair trial experience
• Experience with expert witness retention, preparation, and examination
• Strong background in depositions, motion practice, and discovery in complex civil matters

Pay

$175,000 - $215,000 per year