Closing Date: 24th July, 2026

Description:

Overview:
Associate Justice Armen Tamzarian of Division Four of the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District, located in Los Angeles, is accepting applications for an appellate attorney.

The attorney will work collaboratively with the justice in the preparation of opinions. The attorney's duties will include: reviewing appellate briefs and trial court records; thoroughly researching and analyzing existing law; drafting clear, concise, and well-written memoranda and proposed opinions; reviewing and proofreading opinions; making recommendations regarding the resolution of legal issues pending before the court; and performing other tasks as assigned by the justice. Excellent analytical, writing, and research skills are mandatory, as are collegiality, strong work ethic, and dedication to excellence. Candidates must be able to work independently on complex legal issues, organize their own work, set priorities, and meet deadlines. Desirable qualifications include state or federal clerking experience or familiarity with appellate practice.

Salary is based on qualifications and experience.

Qualifications:

Level A: Active membership in the State Bar of California.
Level B: Active membership in the State Bar of California and the equivalent of two years of post-bar legal experience in a legal setting such as a private law practice, corporation, government agency, law school, court, or legal publishing company.
OR
Equivalent to two years of post-bar legal experience in a legal setting as described above, including one year of experience as an appellate attorney, Level A, with the judicial branch.
Level C: Active membership in the State Bar of California and the equivalent of three years of post-bar legal experience in a legal setting such as a private law practice, corporation, government agency, law school, court, or legal publishing company.
OR
One year of experience as an appellate attorney, Level B, with the judicial branch.
Level D: Active membership in the State Bar of California and the equivalent of four years of post-bar legal experience in a legal setting such as a private law practice, corporation, government agency, law school, court, or legal publishing company.
OR
One year of experience as an appellate attorney, Level C, with the judicial branch.

How to Apply:
To complete an online application please click the Apply for Job button.
The following items are required.

Completed online application
Cover letter
Resume
Three Writing Samples

For earliest consideration, please apply by July 24, 2026. Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled.

The Judicial Council provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities who request such accommodation. Reasonable accommodation needs should be requested through Human Resources at (415) 865-4260. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) is available by dialing 711. Once connected, provide the relay operator with the number for Human Resources: 415-865-4260.

Pay and Benefits:
Salary:

Level A: $6,886 per month
Level B: $8,332 to $10,582 per month
(Starting salary will be between $8,332 to $9,165 per month)
Level C: $9,158 to $11,640 per month
(Starting salary will be between $9,158 to $10,074 per month)
Level D: $10,541 to $14,069 per month
(Starting salary will vary between $10,541 to $11,595 per month)

Please note due to statewide fiscal conditions, the posted salary range is subject to a temporary 3% reduction. In exchange for this reduction, judicial branch employees accrue an additional 5 hours of paid personal leave per month through June 30, 2027.

Benefits: