Job Details

Public Law Litigation Associate

Direct Counsel is seeking a Public Law Litigation Associate to join a sophisticated and collaborative litigation practice representing cities, counties, special districts, public agencies, and private entities throughout California. This is an exciting opportunity for an attorney with 3–6 years of litigation experience interested in handling complex and high-profile public law matters.

The practice handles sophisticated disputes involving land use, municipal finance, governance, ethics and transparency, inverse condemnation, constitutional issues, and local government matters. Attorneys in this group work closely with experienced litigators while receiving meaningful responsibility and direct client exposure early in their careers.

Responsibilities

• Support partners and senior attorneys in all phases of civil litigation
• Assist with case assessment, discovery, motion practice, oral argument, mediation, and trial preparation
• Draft motions, briefs, legal memoranda, and other litigation-related filings
• Manage case deadlines and ensure compliance with procedural requirements
• Conduct legal research and analyze complex public law and constitutional issues
• Interface directly with clients and collaborate closely with litigation teams

Qualifications

• 3–6 years of civil litigation experience
• Excellent writing, analytical, research, and advocacy skills
• Strong organizational and case management abilities
• Writ of mandate and/or appellate experience preferred
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment
• California Bar admission required

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary range: $158,000 – $205,000
• Annual performance-based and billable hours bonuses
• Mainly remote, but must reside in CA
• Reasonable billable hour expectations
• Competitive health insurance benefits and 401(k) with partial match
• Strong mentorship and long-term professional growth opportunities

This opportunity offers sophisticated litigation work, meaningful courtroom exposure, and the chance to work on impactful public law matters in a supportive and team-oriented environment.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply through Direct Counsel.