About this role
About the Role A growing civil litigation defense practice in Walnut Creek is seeking an Associate Attorney for a contract-to-hire role. This position starts fully on-site in Walnut Creek during the training period, and then transitions to a hybrid schedule offering 3 days onsite and 2 days remote. The firm is open to both newly barred attorneys and more experienced litigators, with no formal billable hour requirement. What You'll Do
- Manage cases from inception through resolution, including trial when applicable
- Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, and legal correspondence
- Conduct legal research and develop case strategy
- Attend hearings, depositions, mediations, and court appearances
- Communicate directly with clients, opposing counsel, experts, and witnesses
- Negotiate settlements and assist in resolving matters efficiently
- Maintain case files, track deadlines, and ensure timely case progression
- Collaborate with attorneys and staff to provide high-quality client service What We're Looking For
- Active California Bar membership or recent California Bar admission
- Newly barred attorneys encouraged to apply
- Litigation experience through practice, clerkships, internships, or clinical programs preferred
- Experience with insurance defense, premises liability, trucking, products liability, habitability, construction defect, or general civil litigation is a plus
- Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and organizational abilities
- Ability to manage multiple matters in a fast-paced environment
- Self-starter with a desire to develop as a litigator
- Trial experience is a plus but not required Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $50 - $85 per hour
- Benefits available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance
- Hired contract/temporary professionals are eligible to enroll in the company 401(k) plan