Law & Motion / Appellate Associate (Hybrid or Remote CA) | Civil Defense

Location: Hybrid — Los Angeles, Costa Mesa, or San Francisco, CA | Remote options within California

Employment Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire

Apply today — interviews are already underway for this specialized litigation role.

About the Opportunity

Our client, a well-established civil litigation defense firm, is seeking a Law & Motion / Appellate Associate to join its highly specialized litigation strategy team.

This group serves as the intellectual engine behind complex litigation, focusing on written advocacy that strengthens trial teams across multiple practice areas. Attorneys in this role handle critical motion practice, appellate briefing, and strategic legal research that directly shapes case outcomes.

You'll collaborate closely with experienced litigators while building deep expertise in high-level legal writing, appellate work, and litigation strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft pretrial motions and oppositions, including pleading motions, discovery motions, and dispositive motions
• Prepare trial-related motions, including motions in limine, trial briefs, jury instructions, and verdict forms
• Draft post-trial motions, including motions for new trial and attorney fee motions
• Conduct advanced legal research and case analysis
• Develop and recommend litigation and appellate strategies
• Support trial attorneys with complex law-and-motion work
• Assist with appellate briefing and arguments
• Collaborate with litigation teams across multiple practice areas

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.)
• Active California State Bar membership in good standing
• 2–5+ years of civil litigation experience (flexible range considered)
• Defense-side experience required
• Exceptional legal research and writing abilities
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Law Review or significant legal writing background
• Judicial clerkship or externship experience
• Prior criminal defense experience
• Experience with appellate practice or complex motion work

What's in It for You

• Compensation: $130,000 – $195,000 base salary
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Hybrid or remote flexibility within California
• Comprehensive benefits including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • 401(k) retirement plan
• Opportunity to work on complex civil litigation and appellate matters
• Direct mentorship from experienced litigators and appellate attorneys
• Collaborative environment focused on high-level legal strategy and writing

This is a highly specialized litigation role ideal for attorneys who excel in legal writing, research, and motion practice.

Apply now to be considered — we are actively reviewing candidates and scheduling interviews.