An established employment law practice is seeking an experienced litigator with a strong background in employment law. This role involves handling pre-litigation demand letters, employment litigation, Labor Commissioner hearings, and Department of Labor audit investigations. The Senior Associate will be supported by an experienced paralegal and will work alongside a collaborative team of seasoned attorneys.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as lead counsel on defense-side employment litigation matters, including individual claims, class actions, and PAGA cases
• Attend and represent clients at court hearings, mediations, and depositions as required
• Draft and review pleadings, motions, briefs, and other legal documents
• Negotiate and resolve pre-litigation demand letters when appropriate
• Represent employer clients in Labor Commissioner hearings
• Assist employer clients with Department of Labor audit investigations
• Advise clients on wage and hour compliance, as well as discrimination, harassment, and retaliation issues
• Partner with clients to proactively address legal risks and implement best practices
• Draft and review employee handbooks, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance with California law
• Conduct in-depth legal research on complex and evolving employment law issues
• Stay current on employment law developments and legal trends impacting employer-side clients

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Active membership in the California State Bar; federal admission preferred but not required
• Minimum of five (5) years of employment litigation experience
• Experience handling class action and PAGA matters
• Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment
• Demonstrated commitment to client service and ethical legal practice