Litigation Associate Attorney (Plaintiff-Side Toxic Tort & Asbestos Litigation) | Emeryville, California
A nationally recognized plaintiffs' litigation firm is seeking a Litigation Associate Attorney to join its growing California team. This opportunity offers hands-on litigation experience from day one, working alongside accomplished trial attorneys on complex toxic tort, asbestos, product liability, and catastrophic injury matters.
The firm represents individuals and families harmed by corporate misconduct and has earned a reputation for securing significant settlements and verdicts nationwide. Associates are given meaningful responsibility early in their careers and are encouraged to develop courtroom, deposition, and trial skills in a collaborative, team-oriented environment. Associates quickly gain exposure to all aspects of case management, discovery, motion practice, depositions, client interaction, and trial preparation.
Position Overview
This role is ideal for attorneys who are passionate about plaintiff-side litigation and want substantial courtroom experience. The firm is particularly interested in candidates with backgrounds in asbestos litigation, toxic torts, products liability, personal injury, prosecution, public defense, or other trial-intensive practices.
Associates work closely with experienced litigators and maintain significant client contact throughout the life of a case. Because clients are often navigating difficult personal circumstances, empathy, professionalism, and strong interpersonal skills are essential.
Responsibilities
Manage a litigation caseload from inception through resolution
Conduct written discovery and draft substantive pleadings
Take and defend depositions
Draft and argue motions
Assist in trial preparation and serve as second chair at trial
Develop strong relationships with clients and witnesses
Collaborate with attorneys across multiple offices on complex litigation matters
Travel nationally, regionally, and locally for depositions, hearings, and trials
Qualifications
J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
Active California bar admission, or ability to become licensed in California
Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
Excellent interpersonal and client relationship abilities
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced litigation environment
Commitment to plaintiff-side advocacy
Preferred Background
The firm has a strong preference for candidates with plaintiff-side experience, particularly in:
Asbestos litigation
Toxic tort litigation
Products liability
Catastrophic injury litigation
Trial-focused practices
Attorneys coming from district attorney or public defender offices are encouraged to apply due to the significant courtroom and trial experience those roles provide.
Candidates with limited defense-side experience may be considered; however, the ideal applicant will demonstrate a genuine commitment to representing plaintiffs.
Compensation & Benefits: $125K to $200K, depending on experience
Compensation is highly competitive and determined based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and overall fit.
Newly admitted or Senior-level candidates with substantial asbestos or plaintiff-side litigation experience are encouraged to apply.
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, paid time off, paid holidays, retirement benefits, and additional employee perks.
Additional Information
This is primarily an in-office position designed to foster collaboration, mentorship, and professional development. While the firm offers flexibility for occasional personal needs, candidates should expect an office-centered practice and significant travel obligations, which can increase during trial periods.
The firm cannot provide employment sponsorship. Candidates must already possess independent authorization to work in the United States.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.