Associate Attorney (Insurance Defense)

Location: Orange County, California; Costa Mesa office. Remote, hybrid, or onsite work options are available.

Salary: $115,000–$160,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Attorneys may also receive an annual billable-hours bonus starting at $10,000, with $7,500 added for each additional tier.

Company

Tyson & Mendes is a growing civil defense law firm whose trial attorneys handle complex litigation and provide specialized defense training and professional development.

What you will do

• Develop case strategies that address complex and emotional arguments and drive results.
• Independently manage court appearances, depositions, motion practice, trials, and full caseloads from discovery through trial.
• Maintain professional communication with clients and build relationships with existing and prospective clients.
• Collaborate with attorneys and staff at all experience levels.
• Mentor and guide junior attorneys while contributing to team development.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active California Bar license.
• 1–8 years of solid litigation experience, including case strategy, depositions, and trial preparation.
• Ability to independently manage a full caseload from discovery through trial.
• Familiarity with litigation timekeeping and billing systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Self-motivation with strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.

Nice to have

• Prior insurance defense experience.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible remote, hybrid, or onsite work model with access to a local Costa Mesa team and in-person learning.
• Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life coverage, including plans available at zero employee cost.
• 401(k) program with a 100% match on the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4–5%.
• Student loan repayment assistance or a 529 college savings plan of $100–$200 per month for full-time attorneys after one year; paid parental leave at base pay.
• Comprehensive in-house training, leadership development, CLE programs, paid Bar license renewal fees, and a defined pathway to partnership.
• Flexible vacation policy, $60 monthly technology reimbursement, employee assistance program, diversity and inclusion initiatives, charitable giving, and social events.