Commercial Litigation Associate Attorney

Los Angeles or San Francisco, CA

Direct Counsel is seeking a Commercial Litigation Associate to join a leading Am Law firm in either Los Angeles or San Francisco.

Our client is seeking a 3rd–4th year associate attorney with strong experience in complex business litigation matters in both state and federal courts. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated litigator who thrives in a sophisticated, fast-paced, and collaborative practice.

Responsibilities

The ideal candidate will have substantive experience handling a broad range of commercial litigation matters, including:

• Managing written discovery and complex document discovery
• Researching and drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, and other court filings
• Taking and defending depositions
• Preparing fact and expert witnesses for testimony
• Appearing at status conferences and court hearings
• Arguing motions in state and federal court
• Assisting with trial strategy and trial preparation
• Participating in settlement conferences and negotiations
• Working directly with partners and clients on case strategy and execution

Qualifications

• Strong experience in complex commercial/business litigation
• Excellent legal writing, research, and oral advocacy skills
• Experience in both California state and federal courts
• Deposition and motion practice experience required
• Trial preparation and settlement experience preferred
• Strong academic credentials required
• JD from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active membership and good standing with the California Bar

Ideal Candidate Profile

The successful candidate will be:

• A persuasive legal writer and strong oral advocate
• Highly organized and detail-oriented
• Comfortable with significant client and partner interaction
• Collaborative, proactive, and intellectually curious
• Able to manage multiple deadlines in a busy litigation environment
• Interested in long-term growth within a sophisticated litigation platform

Compensation

Base salary range: $260,000 – $290,000, depending on class year, experience, and overall qualifications.

This role also offers a highly competitive benefits package, including healthcare coverage, retirement benefits, and additional firm-sponsored wellness and family support programs.