Description:

Attlesey Ward, LLP (https://www.attleseyward.com/) is seeking a civil litigation associate attorney who wants meaningful responsibility, direct partner access, and a varied litigation docket.

We are a respected boutique law firm located near the Irvine Spectrum, focused on business and real estate transactions and litigation. We handle lease and various contract disputes, foreclosure, bankruptcy, eviction and landlord-tenant matters, fraud, business torts, and related civil litigation for a diverse client base ranging from publicly traded companies to individuals.

This is an opportunity for an attorney who wants to take ownership of files, appear in court, work directly with experienced partners, and build litigation skills across a diverse caseload.

What You'll Do:
As an associate attorney, you will handle civil litigation matters from inception through resolution, with partner support and oversight. Responsibilities may include:
  • Drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, discovery, correspondence, and settlement materials
  • Conducting legal research and developing case strategy
  • Managing written discovery, document productions, and case deadlines
  • Taking and defending depositions
  • Appearing in court for hearings, case management conferences, law and motion matters, and other proceedings
  • Participating in mediations, arbitrations, and settlement negotiations
  • Trial preparation, trial, post-trial motions, and appeals
  • Communicating with clients, opposing counsel, courts, experts, and vendors
  • Managing a caseload with professionalism, judgment, and attention to detail

Why Join Attlesey Ward?

We offer the kind of small-firm environment where associates are not trapped in a narrow litigation silo. You will work on a broad mix of civil, business, and real estate disputes, with direct access to partners and the chance to develop practical courtroom and case-management skills.

We offer:
  • Competitive compensation
  • A collegial, flexible, and professional work environment
  • Hands-on litigation experience and meaningful file responsibility
  • Direct mentorship from experienced partners
  • Sophisticated clients and varied civil litigation matters
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Paid time off
  • Support for continuing legal education and professional development
  • Payment or reimbursement for approved California State Bar dues, MCLE programs, and professional organization memberships, subject to firm policy

Qualifications:
Qualified candidates should have:
  • J.D. from an accredited law school
  • Active membership in the California State Bar in good standing
  • Civil litigation experience
  • Courtroom experience and experience taking or defending depositions
  • Trial experience is a plus
  • Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
  • Excellent communication and advocacy skills
  • Sound judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to manage deadlines
  • Ability to manage cases independently while working collaboratively with partners and staff
  • A client-focused mindset and commitment to high-quality legal work

Compensation:
The base salary range for this position is $150,000 to $220,000 per year. This range is the Firm's good-faith estimate of the salary it reasonably expects to pay for the position upon hire. Final compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, litigation skills, and other job-related factors.