Regulatory Litigation Associate

We are currently seeking a highly motivated and technically proficient legal advocate to join a premier, nationally recognized regulatory group on behalf of our client.

§ Title: Regulatory Litigation Associate | Wine, Beer & Spirits Law

Practice Area: Alcohol Beverage Regulation, Tied House Compliance, and Controlled Substance Litigation

§ Location: Sacramento, CA

§ Salary: $260,000 to $365,000 (Commensurate with Am Law 100 seniority and specialized industry expertise)

§ Schedule: Full-time, Direct-Hire, Minimum 1,850 hours annual billed

§ The Firm

Our client is a distinguished Am Law 100 powerhouse, widely regarded as a preeminent authority in specialized regulatory litigation and administrative law. Their Alcohol Beverage Law practice consistently maintains a Tier 1 national ranking by Chambers and Partners, serving a diverse and prestigious clientele that ranges from boutique artisanal producers to multi-national conglomerates.

Strategically positioned near the seat of state government, this firm offers a sophisticated blend of high-stakes commercial litigation and complex statutory advisory work. They are renowned for their deep-rooted understanding of regulatory agency dynamics and their ability to navigate the labyrinthine frameworks governing the alcohol, cannabis, and tobacco sectors. For an ambitious associate, this role provides an unparalleled platform to become a leading subject matter expert in a niche, recession-resilient field within a collegial and intellectually stimulating environment.

§ Duties

The incoming Associate will be instrumental in managing complex, multi-jurisdictional regulatory projects and defending client interests in both administrative proceedings and general commercial disputes.

Core responsibilities include: ⨖ Navigating and evaluating intricate tied house, trade practice, and licensing considerations at both the federal and state levels. ⨖ Representing industry stakeholders in administrative actions, regulatory inquiries, and enforcement proceedings before various state and federal oversight bodies. ⨖ Managing large-scale, multi-state compliance audits and strategic advisory projects for producers, wholesalers, and retailers. ⨖ Drafting and reviewing specialized commercial agreements, distribution contracts, and promotional protocols to ensure strict adherence to beverage law statutes. ⨖ Conducting high-level research and providing actionable counsel on the evolving regulatory landscape of the cannabis, hemp, and tobacco industries. ⨖ Engaging in general commercial litigation, including motion practice, discovery, and oral advocacy, while maintaining direct and proactive client communications.

§ Qualifications

Applicants must possess a rigorous academic background and the professional poise necessary for high-level regulatory advocacy. ⨖ Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school with a record of high academic achievement. ⨖ Active Bar Membership in good standing with the State Bar of California. ⨖ Three (3) to Five (5) years of substantive experience in litigation or regulatory law, preferably within an Am Law 100 or specialized boutique environment. ⨖ Demonstrated proficiency in legal research, analytical writing, and the ability to manage complex, multi-phase projects independently. ⨖ A sincere interest in, or established exposure to, the legal frameworks governing the wine, beer, spirits, or controlled substances industries.

§ Skills

The following attributes will significantly bolster a candidate’s profile and support long-term success within the practice: ⨖ Prior experience handling matters involving the TTB or the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC). ⨖ Advanced familiarity with administrative law procedures and the nuances of agency-level adjudication. ⨖ Exceptional interpersonal skills with a proven aptitude for professional networking and client relationship management. ⨖ Experience in related industries, such as industrial hemp or tobacco regulation, which may overlap with the firm’s broader practice groups.

!Notice¡ *This a job advertisement on behalf of our client and does not reflect the full job description for the role. Any qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. You will need to provide law school transcripts, a writing sample or deal sheets, and a cover letter in order to be considered for this role. This posting does not constitute an offer of employment. and the listed compensation details may vary by state or experience and will be discussed thoroughly during interview phase.

Does the ideal candidate require specific experience with the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) for immediate deployment on pending matters, or is the firm primarily looking for a general litigator with a strong interest in the sector?