Civil Trial Attorney

Job Title: Civil Trial Attorney

Location: Fullerton, CA

Job Type: Full-Time, Hybrid

About the job:

We are seeking an experienced Civil Trial Attorney to manage a semi-autonomous litigation caseload involving complex and high-exposure matters. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience handling civil litigation defense cases from inception through trial and appeal, with a proven track record of first-chair trial experience in California courts.

This hybrid position requires local residency. The first two weeks of employment will be conducted onsite in Fullerton, CA, followed by a flexible hybrid work arrangement with in-person meetings and court appearances as needed.

Key Responsibilities:

Manage all phases of civil litigation from initial case assessment through verdict and appeal.

Handle discovery, depositions, motion practice, mediation, arbitration, settlement negotiations, and trial preparation.

Conduct legal research and analysis of statutes, regulations, case law, and legal precedents.

Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, discovery requests and responses, and other litigation-related documents.

Prepare for and attend court hearings, depositions, mediations, arbitrations, and trials.

Interview clients, witnesses, and subject matter experts; prepare summaries and case evaluations.

Develop and execute litigation strategies designed to achieve favorable client outcomes.

Prepare and argue pre-trial motions, including Motions in Limine.

Manage expert witness selection, retention, preparation, and examination.

Conduct direct and cross-examinations during trial proceedings.

Provide regular case updates and strategic recommendations to clients.

Monitor legal and regulatory developments impacting active litigation matters.

Collaborate with attorneys, support staff, and litigation teams on case strategy and management.

Required Qualifications:

Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Active membership in the California State Bar.

Minimum of 8 years of civil litigation defense experience.

First-chair experience in at least:

6 jury trials taken to verdict in California Superior Court.

3 bench trials taken to verdict in California Superior Court.

Strong experience handling cases through all stages of litigation, including appeals.

Thorough knowledge of California Civil Procedure, Appellate Procedure, and Evidence Code.

Experience litigating in California State and Federal Courts.

Demonstrated expertise in trial preparation, courtroom advocacy, and litigation strategy.

Preferred Experience:

Civil defense litigation.

Public entity and government tort defense.

Civil rights litigation.

Personal injury defense.

Contract and tort litigation.

Complex litigation involving significant exposure.

Core Competencies

Trial advocacy and courtroom presentation.

Jury selection (Voir Dire).

Deposition preparation and execution.

Motion drafting and oral argument.

Legal research and analysis.

Expert witness management.

Strategic problem-solving and critical thinking.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team environment.

Benefits:

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Life Insurance

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Retirement Plan with Employer Match