Construction Litigation Associate

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Construction Litigation Associate to join a dynamic legal team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in construction defense litigation and the ability to independently manage complex matters from initial assessment through resolution.

This role is well suited for a highly analytical and detail-oriented attorney with excellent legal writing and oral advocacy skills who can effectively represent clients in a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will work closely with clients, attorneys, experts, and other stakeholders to develop effective litigation strategies and achieve favorable outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Construction Litigation

• Manage a caseload of construction-related litigation matters from inception through resolution.
• Develop and execute litigation strategies based on the facts, applicable law, contracts, and client objectives.
• Represent clients in construction disputes, including claims involving defects, delays, payment disputes, contract issues, and other construction-related matters.
• Conduct legal research and analysis involving construction law, contracts, and applicable statutes and regulations.
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, briefs, memoranda, settlement agreements, and other legal documents.
• Prepare for and participate in depositions, hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trial proceedings.
• Review and analyze construction contracts, project documents, correspondence, change orders, plans, specifications, and other relevant records.
• Work with experts and consultants to evaluate technical and financial aspects of construction disputes.
• Negotiate settlements and participate in alternative dispute resolution proceedings when appropriate.
• Monitor case developments, deadlines, budgets, and litigation strategy throughout each matter.

Client Management

• Serve as a trusted legal advisor to clients regarding construction disputes and litigation risks.
• Communicate case developments, legal strategies, risks, and potential outcomes clearly and effectively.
• Develop strong professional relationships with clients and understand their business and legal objectives.
• Provide practical, business-focused legal advice while protecting client interests.

Case & Practice Management

• Independently manage multiple litigation matters while maintaining high standards of quality and responsiveness.
• Maintain accurate case files, calendars, budgets, and documentation.
• Meet court, client, and internal deadlines consistently.
• Collaborate with partners, associates, paralegals, experts, and other legal professionals.
• Contribute to the development of litigation strategies, legal research, and practice initiatives.
• Stay current on developments in construction law, litigation procedures, and relevant regulations.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active California Bar membership in good standing.
• 5–7 years of experience in construction defense litigation or a closely related litigation practice.
• Strong knowledge of construction law and construction contracts.
• Experience handling construction disputes and related litigation matters.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage a litigation caseload.
• Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and oral advocacy skills.
• Proven ability to develop effective litigation strategies and achieve favorable client outcomes.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple matters, competing priorities, and strict deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal and client communication skills.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently while collaborating effectively with a legal team.
• Willingness to travel as required for client meetings, hearings, depositions, mediations, and other proceedings.
• U.S. citizenship, if required by the position or applicable client matters.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience defending contractors, subcontractors, developers, engineers, architects, or other construction industry professionals.
• Experience handling construction defect, contract, delay, payment, indemnity, or professional liability disputes.
• Experience with mediation, arbitration, and trial preparation.
• Familiarity with construction project documentation, including plans, specifications, change orders, schedules, and payment records.
• Established relationships with construction industry professionals, experts, or consultants.