Junior Associate Attorney Education & Civil Litigation

Job Overview

A law firm seeks a motivated Junior Associate Attorney with experience in Education Law and Civil Litigation to join a rapidly expanding team. This is an exciting opportunity for an attorney with 1-5 years of relevant experience looking to grow within a supportive and dynamic firm. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, have a passion for providing exceptional legal services, and be eager to contribute to a positive, high-energy team. The position is based in California and offers significant potential for personal, professional, and financial growth.

Duties

• Case Management:

  • Execute client cases effectively, ensuring deadlines are met and all necessary documentation is completed.
  • Draft pleadings, motions, and responses to discovery requests.
  • Advise clients on litigation strategies, settlement options, and legal matters.

• Client and Legal Interaction:

  • Meet and correspond with clients, offering regular updates and expert legal guidance.
  • Communicate with opposing counsel and court officials to facilitate smooth case progress.
  • Represent clients in hearings, including management conferences, motions, and mandatory settlement conferences.

• Litigation Support:

  • Prepare clients for hearings and depositions, ensuring they are fully informed and ready.
  • Sit the second chair in trials as needed, providing support during trial preparation and proceedings.
  • Draft and oppose motions, helping to shape the direction of litigation.

• General Administrative Tasks:

  • Maintain organized client files, both electronic and hard copy, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
  • Assist other team members with administrative tasks as required, contributing to a collaborative office environment.

Requirements

• Licensing:

  • Must be admitted to the State Bar of California.
  • Must not have any disciplinary record with the State Bar.

• Experience:

  • 1-5 years of experience in Education Law and Civil Litigation, with courtroom experience.
  • Proficient in drafting legal documents, responding to discovery requests, and managing case files.
  • Familiarity with case management software and legal pleading preparation tools.

• Attributes:

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Ability to stay focused under pressure and meet deadlines.
  • Excellent communication and client relationship-building skills.
  • Technologically proficient, with the ability to navigate legal software, Microsoft Word, and Outlook.

Education

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

Certifications

• Active membership with the State Bar of California (required).

Skills

• Legal Expertise:

  • Strong understanding of civil litigation practices, including Education Law.
  • Excellent legal writing, research, and analysis skills.

• Communication:

  • Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to interact professionally with clients, opposing counsel, and court staff.

• Technology:

  • Competent in using Microsoft Word, Outlook, legal case management software, and CRM tools.
  • Ability to manage various databases and navigate legal tech platforms.

• Personal Qualities:

  • Independent, efficient, and proactive.
  • Calm under pressure and adaptable to a fast-paced environment.
  • High energy, positive attitude, and strong team player.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Continuing Legal Education (CLE) opportunities.
• Bar dues and membership support.
• Retirement benefits after one year of employment.
• Collaborative and supportive work culture with a focus on professional growth.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to grow within the firm while gaining invaluable experience in education law and civil litigation. The firm is committed to fostering a positive, high-performance environment where every team member can thrive.