Direct Counsel has partnered with a premier, nationally recognized law firm in their search for a  junior to mid level associate to support our San Diego Office’s Litigation Practice Group.  The ideal candidate will possess 2+ years of recent business litigation experience from a law firm.  Experience with real estate litigation is a plus.  Candidates should also be licensed to practice in California, and have strong writing skills and excellent academic credentials.

Responsibilities:

Review a fact pattern and make correct analysis and recommendations

Effectively and accurately analyze legal issues

Second chair a complex case or first chair a simpler case

Effectively assist lead trial attorneys in all pre-trial issues and proceedings

Prepare complex pre-trial motions

Assist in evaluating and implementing pre-trial preparation and witness preparation

Experience in pre-trial motions in both Federal and State courts

Independently and effectively manage a small case with minimum or no supervision

Independently handle a modestly complex commercial case

Prepare motions for summary judgment

Effectively prepare deponents

Effectively take complex deposition testimony

Demonstrate a breadth of experience in various substantive areas of law

Requirements

Must have a Juris Doctorate with excellent academic credentials;

Must be licensed to practice law and in good standing in California;

Familiarity with federal and state court procedural rules and practices;

Familiarity with and ability to prepare basic litigation documents;

Must have case management experience;

Clear and effective drafting skills;

Strong negotiating skills;

Ability to learn new substantive legal topics as needed are required;

Ability to provide effective and reliable legal services to clients and supervising attorneys;

Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing;

Ability to work effectively under pressure and to meet deadlines;

Strong organization and matter management skills;

Ability to work effectively with others as part of a team.

Benefits

Pay Scale: The reasonably expected pay scale for this position is $130-$200k, with bonus potential of up to $106,000.  This is an employer estimate and the salary offered within that range, and the potential for bonus and bonus amount, will depend on candidate’s years of practice and experience and performance.