| Location | Fullerton, CA |
| Salary | $200,000–$250,001 |
Civil Rights (Police) Litigation Attorney
Fullerton, California
Hybrid (Full-Time)
$200,000 – $250,000 Base Salary + Annual Billing Bonus
Our client is a dynamic litigation practice handling complex and high-exposure civil rights matters. The firm fosters a high-performance, collaborative environment focused on sophisticated legal defense, rigorous constitutional research, and top-tier trial advocacy, helping public and private entities navigate critical legal challenges.
This is a senior-level legal position focused on managing complex civil rights defense matters and Section 1983 claims from inception through trial and appeal. Working in a hybrid capacity, you will serve as first-chair trial counsel, lead courtroom advocacy, develop comprehensive litigation strategies, and manage litigation budgets for high-exposure caseloads.
Litigation
Manage civil rights litigation matters from inception through trial and appeal. Handle complex Section 1983 claims and related constitutional law matters.
Represent clients at hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trials; prepare and argue critical motions, including dispositive motions and motions in limine.
Discovery
Conduct case evaluations, draft pleadings, manage extensive discovery requests/responses, and confidently conduct and defend depositions.
Coordinate closely with experts, investigators, and other litigation support professionals while maintaining regular, strategic communication with clients.
Independently manage case files, strict court deadlines, and comprehensive litigation budgets.
Education
Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
Active membership in good standing with the California State Bar is mandatory.
Minimum
10+ years of dedicated civil rights litigation experience
with a proven ability to independently manage complex cases through resolution.
Extensive, demonstrated experience handling complex Section 1983 litigation and structural constitutional law matters.
Demonstrated first-chair trial experience with deep knowledge of federal and state court procedures.
Hands-on experience in trial preparation, jury selection (Voir Dire), direct/cross-examination, and comprehensive witness preparation.
Demonstrated experience in
Law Enforcement Defense
or
Police Misconduct Defense .
Background handling
Excessive Force Litigation , Wrongful Arrest, and complex Civil Rights Claims.
Familiarity with Public Entity Defense, Government Tort Litigation, or Municipal Law.
Competencies
Offers flexibility for remote work, but in-person attendance is strictly required for client meetings, depositions, team meetings, court appearances, and other required legal proceedings.
Candidates must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the Fullerton office.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, excellent written/verbal communication, outstanding time-management, and superior client relationship skills.
Compensation, Bonus Structure
Annual billable requirement of 1,800 hours.
Must achieve the annual goal of 1,800 billable hours. Earn $50 per hour for each credited hour worked above the goal (calculated using billable and approved administrative time; capped at 250 hours above goal). Maximum Annual Bonus Opportunity: $12,500.
Competitive base salary of $200,000 – $250,000, annual billing bonus opportunity, sophisticated and challenging litigation matters, strong professional development, and a comprehensive benefits package available upon hire.