What are the responsibilities and job description for the Election Law Associate Attorney position at Direct Counsel?
Associate | Election LawLos Angeles, Orange County, Sacramento, or San FranciscoDirect Counsel is seeking an Election Law Associate Attorney to join a highly regarded California-based law firm with a nationally recognized Government Relations & Regulation practice. This opportunity is ideal for an associate with 3–5 years of experience who is ready to take on meaningful responsibility and work directly with clients on sophisticated California regulatory matters.The RoleThe associate will focus primarily on California state and local election law, including campaign finance, lobbying, government ethics, and conflicts of interest. The practice advises a diverse client base that includes corporations, high-impact nonprofit organizations, lobbying firms, candidates, and elected officials.This role offers significant client exposure and the opportunity to contribute substantively to strategic advice, compliance programs, and regulatory and enforcement matters before California state and local agencies.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide strategic advice on California election, campaign finance, lobbying, ethics, and conflict-of-interest lawsSupport and manage compliance programs and regulatory matters involving California state and local agenciesInterface directly with regulatory bodies such as the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) and local ethics agenciesHandle enforcement proceedings, audits, and investigations, including preparing responses and negotiating resolutionsCollaborate closely with partners on complex regulatory and enforcement issuesManage multiple matters with competing deadlines while exercising sound legal judgmentDevelop long-term client relationships within a specialized and growing practiceQualifications3–5 years of experience practicing election law or related regulatory workStrong command of the California Political Reform Act and local ordinances governing campaign finance, lobbying, ethics, and conflicts of interestExperience interfacing with California regulatory agencies is essentialExperience with California enforcement proceedings, audits, or investigations is strongly preferredBackground in California government service, political campaigns, or California-based nonprofit organizations is highly valuedLitigation experience in California courts or administrative forums is a plus, but not requiredAdditional ExposureWhile the core focus is California law, associates may also have opportunities to work on federal election law matters, including issues involving independent expenditures and political activity by nonprofit organizations under the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA). Experience with FEC compliance or enforcement matters is a plus, but not required.Compensation & ExpectationsSalary range: $205,000 – $230,000, commensurate with experienceAnnual billable expectation: 1,850 hours (including up to 100 hours of approved pro bono work)Eligibility for annual bonuses, including a 15% bonus for meeting billable hour expectationsApplication ProcessInterested candidates should submit a resume and law school transcript.This firm is an Equal Opportunity and Fair Chance employer and is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive workplace.
Salary : $205,000 - $230,000