Associate Attorney

Overview

A nationwide law firm with offices on the east and west coasts is seeking an Associate Attorney to join their Product Liability team. The firm handles complex litigation matters involving scientific, regulatory, and technological expertise across over 20 U.S. states.

Responsibilities

• Draft and review pleadings, motions, and other litigation documents related to product liability and complex litigation.
• Prepare, analyze, and respond to written discovery; manage discovery involving multiple parties.
• Develop case strategies, defenses, and trial themes with increasing autonomy, supported by mentorship.
• Research and analyze applicable state and federal case law, statutes, and regulations.
• Interview and prepare fact witnesses, expert witnesses, and corporate representatives for testimony.
• Take and defend depositions of lay witnesses, experts, and corporate representatives.
• Argue motions and participate in court appearances under supervision.
• Draft pretrial reports; assist with case evaluations, exposure analysis, and risk assessments.
• Participate in mediations, settlement conferences, status conferences, and hearings.
• Contribute to creative problem-solving and strategic planning for case resolution.
• Assist with settlement negotiations with plaintiffs and opposing counsel.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships through professional and inclusive communication.
• Collaborate with and help supervise paralegals and litigation support staff.
• Support senior attorneys on complex litigation matters.
• Meet annual billable hour expectations and comply with timekeeping policies.
• Participate in business development, networking, and client-facing opportunities.
• Engage in bar associations, professional organizations, and community involvement.
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplace culture.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Admission to practice law in California required; additional licenses are a plus.
• 0–3 years of litigation experience preferred, especially in product liability, toxic tort, environmental, insurance defense, construction, or complex civil litigation. Prior paralegal, judicial clerkship, internship, clinic, or externship experience will be considered.
• Experience in a billable-hour law firm environment preferred.
• Demonstrated interest in complex litigation and willingness to develop subject-matter expertise.
• Strong client-service orientation with clear, respectful, and professional communication skills.
• Self-motivated, organized, and able to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and individuals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure while maintaining professionalism.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with document management systems such as FileVine is a plus.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development, mentorship, and inclusive excellence.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $98,000 to $129,000, determined by education, experience, internal equity, and other job-related factors.
• Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
• Life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Paid time off and holidays.

Additional Information

• This position may require occasional work beyond 40 hours per week.
• The job description is subject to periodic updates and may evolve over time.
• The employer is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
• Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and business needs without regard to protected status.
• Qualified applicants must be able to perform essential duties with or without reasonable accommodation.