Litigation Associate - Sacramento or SF

Litigation Associate Attorney (2-6 Years) - Sacramento or San Francisco

We are a well-regarded California firm where associates handle sophisticated, complex litigation - and actually have a life outside work. If you want meaningful courtroom and motion-practice experience without the grind culture of a mega-firm, this is the role.

What you'll do

• Own matters end-to-end across all phases: pre-litigation strategy, pleadings, discovery, law and motion, mediation, and trial preparation
• Draft high-quality motions, briefs, and discovery - including dispositive motions such as demurrers and motions for summary judgment
• Take and defend depositions, prepare witnesses, and manage written discovery responses
• Appear at hearings, case management conferences, mediations, and arbitrations
• Conduct complex legal research and deliver clear strategic analysis on business disputes
• Collaborate directly with partners and senior associates to develop case strategy and manage client relationships
• Coordinate trial preparation: exhibit lists, witness outlines, expert coordination, and case-theme development

What you need

• J.D. from an accredited law school and active California State Bar membership in good standing
• 2-6 years of substantive general civil litigation experience
• Demonstrated ability to draft and argue both dispositive and non-dispositive motions
• Experience managing cases through discovery, motion practice, and mediation
• Exceptional legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills, with a collaborative and client-focused approach
• 1750 min billable requitements

Nice to have

• Trial experience (first or second chair)
• Experience with complex business litigation, commercial disputes, or employment matters
• Familiarity with California state court practice and local rules in Sacramento or San Francisco

We are committed to reasonable workload expectations so associates can produce excellent work and maintain a fulfilling personal life.

Location & schedule

Sacramento or San Francisco, CA - candidate may be based in either office.

Full-time, Monday-Friday.

Hybrid schedule available after 90 days: 3 days in-office, up to 2 days remote per week.

Benefits

• Base salary - 160K-220K plus lucrative bonus structure
• Full Medical, Dental and vision benefits along with 401K plus match
• Bar dues covered when due
• Generous PTO
• Paid Holidays
• Additional Perks