Senior Litigation Counsel Civil Defense

Location: Santa Ana, California (Hybrid)

Job Overview

A law firm seeks an accomplished Senior Litigation Counsel to play a key role in its civil defense practice, based out of Santa Ana, California. This firm offers the opportunity to work on diverse, high-profile cases spanning general liability, professional malpractice, auto claims, and premises liability. The ideal candidate will have 5 to 10 years of legal experience, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to manage complex caseloads independently.

The firm embraces a hybrid work model, allowing attorneys to balance remote work with regular time spent collaborating in the office. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced litigator seeking a firm that values performance, professional development, and work-life flexibility.

Duties

• Oversee a diverse caseload encompassing civil defense matters, including professional malpractice, premises liability, and general liability
• Develop and implement effective litigation strategies tailored to each case and client’s goals
• Draft, review, and revise pleadings, discovery documents, legal briefs, and correspondence
• Represent clients in all stages of litigation, from initial case evaluation through trial and appeal
• Appear in court for hearings, motion arguments, settlement conferences, and trials (in-person and virtually as needed)
• Lead negotiations and settlement discussions on behalf of clients
• Mentor and support junior attorneys and legal staff as part of collaborative case management
• Maintain regular and responsive communication with clients to ensure transparency and effective representation

Requirements

• 5 to 10 years of experience in civil litigation, insurance defense, or comparable legal practice
• Demonstrated ability to manage high-volume caseloads with competing deadlines
• Excellent legal writing, research, and analytical abilities
• Strong oral advocacy skills, with comfort appearing in court and handling contested hearings and trials
• Proficiency with case management software and legal technology platforms
• Proven ability to work collaboratively within a team environment while also taking ownership of independent responsibilities

Education

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

Certifications

• Active license to practice law in California and/or Nevada (must be in good standing)

Skills

• Advanced legal research and analysis
• Effective case strategy development
• Clear and persuasive written and verbal communication
• Team-oriented with strong mentoring abilities
• Organizational excellence and attention to detail
• Negotiation and conflict resolution skills
• Client management and relationship-building

Benefits

• 401(k) with matching contributions
• Firm-paid gym membership
• Paid time off (PTO) plus 13 paid holidays
• Parental leave program
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
• Firm-paid life and disability insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options for healthcare and dependent care
• Quarterly team events such as firm socials and team-building outings
• Regular employee appreciation initiatives
• Professional development opportunities, including continuing education support and mentorship
• Breakfast Fridays and team luncheons fostering a collaborative culture
• Merit, performance, and referral bonuses recognizing excellence and contribution