Litigation Associate Civil Rights and Constitutional Law

Job Overview:

A law firm seeks a motivated and detail-oriented Litigation Associate to join its Oakland office. This position focuses on complex legal matters involving constitutional law, civil rights, government tort liability, and other high-stakes litigation primarily in federal courts. The ideal candidate will have a passion for civil rights, the U.S.C. Section 1983 claims, excessive force cases, conditions of confinement issues, and class action lawsuits. This role provides a unique opportunity to work on significant cases that shape public policy and impact the legal landscape.

Duties:

• Handle a range of litigation matters focused on civil rights, constitutional law, and government tort liability.
• Manage complex cases involving U.S.C. Section 1983 claims, excessive force allegations, conditions of confinement, and class actions.
• Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, motions, and briefs for federal and state court filings.
• Participate in discovery processes, including document production, depositions, and interrogatories.
• Represent clients in court hearings, trials, and other legal proceedings.
• Collaborate with senior attorneys and litigation teams on high-profile cases.
• Maintain effective communication with clients, colleagues, and court personnel.

Requirements:

• 2 to 5 years of litigation experience, ideally in civil rights, constitutional law, or related fields.
• Experience in federal court litigation is essential.
• Prior civil rights experience is preferred but not required.
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.

Education:

• Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Admission to the California State Bar (active and in good standing).

Skills:

• Proficiency in legal research and drafting legal documents for complex litigation.
• Strong oral advocacy skills, with the ability to represent clients in court.
• High attention to detail and the ability to handle large-scale discovery.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based environment.
• Time management skills with a focus on meeting billable hour requirements.

Benefits:

• Hybrid work arrangement with remote work support, including an annual telecommute budget.
• Comprehensive health insurance benefits.
• 401(k) plan with a partial match.
• Annual performance-based bonuses and billable hour bonuses.
• Pro bono work opportunities with billable credit for up to 40 hours.
• Business development support, including a yearly budget for continuing legal education and conferences.
• Robust diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including mentorship programs and civic engagement opportunities.

Location:

• Oakland, CA (Hybrid work arrangement available).

This role is an excellent fit for a litigator looking to build expertise in civil rights and constitutional law while working in a collaborative and supportive environment that values diversity and professional growth.

Founded over nine decades ago, this family-owned firm specializes in a wide range of practices including constitutional law, intellectual property, family law, real estate, public law, employment litigation, construction, insurance, data privacy, and others. With 10 offices throughout California, the firm has over a hundred highly experienced and skilled attorneys. Serving public agencies and private businesses throughout California, this firm has earned a great reputation for providing high-quality representation based on honesty, efficiency, and prompt responsiveness. The firm fosters a professional collegial work environment that promotes equality, dignity, and respect. The firm is an Equal Opportunity Employer and has an option for employees to work remotely.