Job Description
Job Description
Direct Counsel is seeking a Public Entity Defense Associate Attorney to join a growing litigation practice in Orange County. This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney with experience defending public agencies, municipalities, and government entities in complex civil litigation matters.
The ideal candidate will have 3–5 years of litigation experience and a strong interest in public entity defense, government tort liability, civil rights litigation, and employment-related matters involving public agencies.
Responsibilities
- Represent public entities, municipalities, and government agencies in a variety of litigation matters, including:
- Police liability and excessive force claims
- Civil rights defense
- Employment and labor disputes
- Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims
- Wrongful termination matters
- General tort liability
- Premises liability claims
- Conduct legal research and draft:
- Pleadings
- Motions
- Briefs
- Appellate filings
- Review and analyze public records, discovery materials, and case-related documents
- Handle all phases of litigation, including:
- Written discovery
- Depositions
- Motion practice
- Trial preparation
- Appeals
- Attend court appearances, mediations, settlement conferences, and hearings
- Prepare exhibits, witness materials, and trial binders
- Coordinate directly with public entity clients, risk managers, opposing counsel, experts, and court personnel
- Develop litigation strategies and assist in achieving favorable outcomes for clients
Qualifications
- J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
- Active California Bar membership in good standing
- 3–5 years of litigation experience
- Experience in one or more of the following areas preferred:
- Public entity defense
- Government tort liability
- Civil rights defense
- Employment litigation
- Law enforcement defense
- Strong legal research, writing, and analytical abilities
- Excellent oral advocacy and communication skills
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to manage multiple matters independently while working collaboratively with a team
- Proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes through motion practice, settlement, or trial
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary range: $130,000 – $175,000
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Retirement plan
- Student loan assistance program
- Paid office parking or transit pass
- Comprehensive benefits package
- Professional development and advancement opportunities
Why This Opportunity
- Represent public agencies and municipalities in sophisticated litigation matters
- Gain substantial courtroom and litigation experience
- Receive mentorship from experienced litigators and trial attorneys
- Handle meaningful client-facing responsibilities
- Collaborative and supportive team environment
- Clear path for professional development and long-term advancement
Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier law firms and fostering inclusive hiring practices.