Non Equity Partner - Public Entity Defense

Are you a skilled attorney with a passion for defending public entities? Our dynamic and growing law firm is seeking an experienced Public Entity Defense Associate Attorney to join our team in Orange County.

Position: Public Entity Defense Associate Attorney

Location: Orange, California
Employment Type: Full-time

Key Responsibilities:

The ideal candidate will assist with all aspects of public entity defense litigation, including but not limited to:

Handling a variety of matters involving public agencies and municipalities, such as:
Police Liability and Excessive Force: Defending law enforcement personnel and agencies in claims arising from use of force, wrongful arrest, and other alleged misconduct.
Employment and Labor Defense: Defending public entities in cases involving discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination.
General Tort and Premises Liability: Managing claims involving injuries occurring on government-owned or maintained property.
Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, and briefs on complex legal issues affecting public entities.
Review and analyze public records, discovery responses, and documents for relevance, privilege, and compliance with the Public Records Act.
Participate in all phases of litigation including discovery, depositions, motion practice, trial preparation and appeals.
Attend court appearances, settlement conferences, mediations, and hearings.
Prepare and organize exhibits, witness materials, and trial binders.
Collaborate and coordinate with public entity clients, risk managers, opposing counsel, and court personnel.
Qualifications:

Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an ABA accredited law school.
Active California state bar membership in good standing is required.
3-5 years of litigation experience, with a focus on public entity defense, government tort liability, or civil rights defense preferred.
Proficiency in legal research and writing, with demonstrated ability to analyze complex legal and factual issues.
Strong analytical, organizational, and oral advocacy skills.
Excellent attention to detail and time management.
Ability to handle multiple cases and deadlines efficiently, independently, and as part of a collaborative team.
Proven track record of achieving favorable results for clients in motion practice, settlement, or trial.
Availability for occasional travel as required for depositions, hearings, and client meetings.
What We Offer:

Competitive salary $130k-175k/annual plus benefits package.
Retirement plans.
Bonus programs.
Student loan assistance.
Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
Supportive and collaborative work environment.
Mentoring with senior associates and partner level attorneys.
3-to-1 attorney to secretary ratio.
Paid office parking or Transit Pass.