Description

Associate or Senior Counsel – Insurance Defense Litigation

Northen California, CA | Hybrid Work Environment

Join Tyson & Mendes – Where Insurance Defense Meets Innovation

Active bar license in the State of California required.

At Tyson & Mendes, we’re more than a national litigation firm — we’re a force for change in insurance defense and trial advocacy. Known for our bold mission to stop Nuclear Verdicts® and our results-driven approach, we set new standards for client service and courtroom success across the country.

As we continue to grow nationwide, we’re hiring Associate and Senior Counsel attorneys to join our dynamic Northern CA litigation team — a group recognized for its outstanding collaboration, courtroom experience, and success handling high-exposure and complex litigation in one of the firm’s most active regions. Whether you’re an emerging trial attorney or a seasoned litigator ready to lead, you’ll find the opportunity to grow, shape strategy, and make a lasting impact here.

Why Tyson & Mendes

• Growth Built In: From advanced trial training to executive-level development and mentorship, we invest deeply in your success.
• Lead with Purpose: Senior counsel take the lead on high-stakes cases and guide strategy, while associates gain hands-on litigation experience and develop their trial skills quickly.
• Stability + Agility: Join a nationally recognized firm with financial strength, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a collaborative, no-silos culture.
• Inclusive by Design: Diversity, equity, and inclusion drive innovation here. We value every voice — and empower you to use yours.
• Work Where You Thrive: Office, home, or hybrid — we care about performance, not facetime.

Who You Are

We’re looking for strategic, confident litigators with a defense mindset and a passion for results. You manage complex cases with precision, think several steps ahead, and approach challenges as opportunities. You’re collaborative, client-focused, and committed to delivering exceptional value.

• Associates (1–8 years): You’re ready to sharpen your litigation skills, manage cases independently, and build a trial career.
• Senior Counsel (8+ years): You’re a respected litigator who leads strategy, mentors attorneys, and navigates high-exposure matters with confidence and skill.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute compelling defense strategies that win cases.
• Manage court appearances, depositions, motion practice, and trials independently.
• Communicate proactively with clients and cultivate strong, lasting relationships.
• Collaborate with attorneys and staff at all levels to deliver outstanding results.
• Mentor junior attorneys and contribute to team growth.
• Provide leadership and strategic direction on complex litigation (Senior Counsel).

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active bar license in the State of California.
• Associate: 1–8 years of litigation experience, including case strategy, depositions, and trial preparation.
• Senior Counsel: 8+ years of litigation experience, with proven leadership and trial experience.
• Insurance defense experience preferred.
• Proficiency with timekeeping/billing systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Professional demeanor and the ability to work independently.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay Range:
• Associate: $100,000 – $160,000 USD
• Senior Counsel: $150,000 – $200,000 USD
• Transparent, performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans (many at no cost to employees).
• Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan (for attorneys).
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid parental leave and flexible vacation policy.
• Robust in-house training, leadership development, and Trial Academy.
• Defined pathway to partnership.
• Active DEI initiatives, including the Women’s Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative.
• Firm-wide charitable giving and volunteer programs.
• Frequent team-building and social events.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Maven family support resources.

About Tyson & Mendes

We’re one of the fastest-growing civil defense firms in the nation — breaking the mold of traditional litigation firms. Our Northern CA team is at the forefront of that mission, representing clients in catastrophic injury, product liability, complex commercial, and high-exposure insurance defense cases across California.

We don’t just invest in winning cases — we invest in you. With specialized trial training, mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities for rapid career growth, we empower our attorneys to become leaders in the industry.

Learn more about our firm here.

Equal Opportunity Employer Notice

It is Tyson & Mendes’ policy to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment based on race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.

Make Your Move.
Be part of something bigger — join Tyson & Mendes and help shape the future of insurance defense. Apply today. We’re ready for your best.