Associate Attorney

Description An established, high-end boutique firm is looking for a dedicated Associate Attorney to join the team in Del Mar, San Diego. This role is ideal for an Associate Attorney with substantial experience in civil litigation, particularly on the defense side (labor & employment, and insurance law). This firm on High Bluff Drive offers a hybrid, flexible schedule with lots of room for growth Responsibilities: u2022 Handle all aspects of civil litigation, including drafting motions, preparing discovery responses, and managing discovery requests. u2022 Conduct thorough case reviews, including reviewing complaints and performing case workups after intake. u2022 Take and defend depositions, focusing on witness depositions and discovery-heavy tasks. u2022 Collaborate with partners on trial preparation and attend trials as part of the litigation team. u2022 Draft and argue motions in court, contributing to case strategy and resolution. u2022 Prepare detailed status reports and correspondence to keep clients informed of case progress. u2022 Manage client files and ensure all relevant information is organized and accessible. u2022 Work closely with other associates and partners to ensure cases are handled efficiently and effectively. u2022 Provide hands-on support throughout the litigation process, from intake to trial. u2022 Maintain accurate and detail-oriented billing practices, adhering to firm standards. Perks of Firm: + The associate will truly be involved in the cases (not just sitting in a back room writing), including going to trial alongside partners. + They have 50 templates on iManage and thorough training notes u2013 tons of resources + They are currently remodeling their office, on one of the most expensive streets for real estate in the country + Office serves the u201cbest coffee in San Diegou201d (Seven Seas). They roast the beans the day before they send them to the office. + The firm does something fun together once a month (lunches, happy hours, etc.). + u201cWe do not allow any yelling. If that happens, the attorney is in troubleu201d u2013 managing partner + u201cWe regularly meet in the kitchen for lunches and coffee breaks.u201d u2013 office manager + u201cThe people here really appreciate each otheru2019s lives outside the office.u201d u2013 senior legal secretary + u201cYour efforts are acknowledged and rewarded. The named partner is a good example: he always says please and thank you. You wonu2019t be asked to give 100% unless they are also giving 100% themselves.u201d u2013 senior legal secretary Requirements u2022 A minimum of 5 years of experience in civil litigation, preferably on the defense side (insurance or labor & employment preferred). u2022 Strong skills in handling depositions, including taking and defending witness depositions. u2022 Demonstrated ability to draft and argue motions effectively. u2022 Proficiency in managing discovery processes, including requests, responses, and e-discovery. u2022 Some trial preparation experience, with a willingness to attend trials as needed. u2022 A Juris Doctor (JD) degree and active bar license in CA. u2022 Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced legal environment. u2022 Willingness to hit 1920 billable hours per year. Pay is entirely contingent upon experience. Ready to apply? Email your resume to Melanie.Kent[at]roberthalf[dotcom] with

Created: 2026-01-12