Associate Attorney

Job Title:
Associate Attorney – Civil Litigation Defense

Location: San Francisco, CA

Employment Type: Full-Time

Practice Area: Civil Litigation Defense

Position Overview

Our firm is seeking a motivated and skilled Associate Attorney to join our Civil Litigation Defense team in San Francisco, CA. This position offers the opportunity to work on complex litigation matters, gain hands-on courtroom experience, and collaborate with experienced trial attorneys. The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and capable of independently managing cases while contributing to a collaborative legal team.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of civil litigation defense matters from inception through trial or resolution
• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and discovery requests/responses
• Conduct legal research and develop case strategies
• Take and defend depositions
• Attend court hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials
• Prepare cases for trial, including witness preparation and exhibit management
• Communicate effectively with clients, insurance carriers, opposing counsel, and court personnel
• Analyze liability, damages, and risk exposure
• Participate in settlement negotiations and mediation
• Maintain accurate time records and meet billable hour requirements

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active California Bar license in good standing
• 1–5 years of civil litigation experience (defense experience preferred)
• Strong understanding of California civil procedure rules
• Experience handling written discovery and depositions
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills
• Ability to manage multiple cases in a fast-paced environment
• Strong organizational and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Insurance defense experience
• Trial preparation and courtroom experience
• Experience with case management software
• Strong negotiation and client-relations skills