Job Description
Senior Civil Trial Attorney - Defense Orange County / Los Angeles We have been retained by a respected California law firm to identify a proven first-chair trial attorney for a high-exposure civil litigation practice. This is a true first-chair role. You will own your cases, set strategy, advise clients directly, and take matters through verdict and appeal. This is a seat for a lawyer who wants to stay close to the work that matters most, not manage from a distance. The practice is built around complex, high-stakes litigation, including tort, constitutional, institutional, and other sophisticated defense matters. The work is substantive, the exposure is real, and the expectation is that you can step in and operate with confidence. This is not a volume-driven docket. It is a focused practice built around serious cases and sound judgment. The Role Own a caseload from intake through verdict and appeal Develop case strategy, assess exposure, and advise clients directly Lead depositions, motion practice, and pre-trial negotiations Prepare and try cases as first chair, including jury selection and expert strategy Manage all phases of litigation without reliance on layers of oversight Maintain direct, ongoing client relationships What We’re Looking For 10+ years of civil litigation experience Proven first-chair trial record in California State Superior Court Meaningful jury and bench trial experience to verdict Comfortable managing high-exposure matters independently Strong deposition, motion practice, and courtroom advocacy skills Sound judgment and the ability to make decisions under pressure Active California Bar membership Why This Role Real trial work, not just case management Direct ownership and responsibility for outcomes Sophisticated, high-exposure litigation Autonomy within an established platform Location / Structure Candidates must be based in Los Angeles or Orange County and available for court appearances, onsite meetings, and other in-person obligations as needed. If you are a trial attorney who wants to do more of the work that actually matters — trying cases, shaping outcomes, and operating with real ownership — this is worth a conversation. Confidential inquiries welcome. Pay: $200,000.00 - $235,000.00 per year Benefits Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Work Location: In person