Senior Trial Attorney

Job Overview

A well-established civil litigation law firm with office in La Jolla is seeking a seasoned Senior Trial Attorney to join its leadership team. The role is ideal for a Senior Associate or Senior Counsel with extensive first-chair jury trial experience and the ability to lead a team of litigators. This position offers the opportunity to take on complex civil litigation matters in a collegial, entrepreneurial environment that values high-quality legal work and professional development.

Location

• La Jolla, California

Duties

• Lead and manage a litigation team handling civil litigation matters

• Serve as first-chair trial counsel on jury trials and complex litigation cases

• Oversee all phases of litigation including pleadings, discovery, depositions, motion practice, mediations, arbitrations, and trial preparation

• Draft, review, and argue motions, legal briefs, and other court submissions

• Train and mentor junior attorneys, law clerks, and litigation support staff

• Develop case strategies and provide guidance on procedural and substantive legal issues

• Communicate directly with clients, providing updates and strategic legal counsel

• Maintain a high standard of legal ethics and client service

Requirements

• Minimum 15 years of experience in civil litigation

• Demonstrated experience as first-chair counsel in multiple jury trials

• Strong command of California state court procedures and substantive law

• Proven leadership and litigation team management experience

• Ability to manage a substantial docket of complex cases efficiently

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school

Certifications

• Active and good standing member of the California State Bar

Skills

• Superior trial advocacy and oral argument skills

• Strong legal research, analysis, and writing capabilities

• Ability to handle high-stakes cases independently and collaboratively

• Excellent mentoring and team development skills

• Strong time management and organizational abilities

• Commitment to maintaining client relationships and providing exceptional service

Benefits

• Opportunity to work on high-level litigation matters in a dynamic and supportive team

• Entrepreneurial firm environment with pathways for leadership and growth

• Scenic office locations near Balboa Park and La Jolla Cove