Associate Attorney Litigation

Associate Attorney | Environmental, Land Use & Litigation

Location: Carlsbad, CA Schedule: Full-Time | Hybrid Flexibility Available Compensation: $140,000 - $200,000 DOE + Bonus PotentialAre you a litigation attorney looking for a sophisticated practice, meaningful work, and a better quality of life?A highly respected boutique California law firm is seeking an Associate Attorney to join its growing team.

This role offers the opportunity to work on impactful environmental, land use, municipal, real estate, construction, and business matters for both public agencies and private-sector clients.This is an excellent opportunity for attorneys who enjoy complex legal work, strong mentorship, and direct client exposure without the demands often associated with larger firms.If you're a strong litigator seeking a long-term opportunity with a respected boutique practice handling some of California's most interesting environmental and land use matters, we'd love to connect with you.What You'll DoAdvise public and private clients on environmental and land use mattersDraft motions, briefs, memoranda, and other legal documentsConduct legal research and case analysisReview CEQA and NEPA compliance documentsParticipate in litigation matters from discovery through resolutionAttend hearings, meetings, and administrative proceedingsWork closely with experienced partners on sophisticated mattersQualificationsActive California Bar license2+ years of litigation experience preferredStrong legal writing, research, and analytical skillsHighly organized and detail-orientedAbility to manage matters independently while collaborating with a teamEnvironmental or land use experience is a plus, but not requiredDirect access to partners and clientsStrong mentorship and trainingDiverse and intellectually challenging practiceStable and collaborative team environmentBenefitsComprehensive medical coverageDental insurance401(k) with employer matchFlexible PTORelocation assistance may be available Desired Skills and ExperienceCalifornia Bar licensed.Strong litigation background preferred.Open to candidates without land use or environmental experience if they have strong litigation fundamentals.Firm is willing to train the right person.Looking for organized, detail-oriented attorneys with excellent writing and research skills.No book of business required.No trial experience required.Targeting 2+ years of experience, but open to more senior candidates.Practice AreasCandidate will assist with litigation and advisory work involving:Land UseEnvironmental LawCEQA & NEPA mattersMunicipal LawAirport LawBusiness DisputesConstruction MattersReal Estate IssuesClients include both public agencies (cities, counties, airports) and private-sector developers and landowners.Day-to-Day ResponsibilitiesLegal research and analysis.Drafting memos, pleadings, motions, and appellate briefs.Reviewing CEQA and NEPA compliance documents.Discovery and administrative record preparation.Attending hearings, meetings, and project-related proceedings.Supporting litigation in both judicial and administrative settings.Working directly with multiple partners on sophisticated matters.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.