Senior Counsel – Complex Trial

Tyson & Mendes

Senior Counsel leading high-exposure insurance-defense trials at Tyson & Mendes, a national civil defense firm. Managing litigation strategy, client advice, courtroom advocacy, and trial teams.

Posted 8/19/2026full-timeRemote • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $160,000 - $190,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in insurance defense litigation, particularly in complex trial work, with a strong focus on case strategy development, client advisement, and effective communication of legal strategies. Proven ability to lead trials and manage a demanding caseload while mentoring junior staff.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Juris Doctor (JD)Active California Law License8+ Years Insurance Defense Litigation ExperienceLead Trial Counsel ExperienceE-Discovery Tools Proficiency

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Civil Procedure KnowledgeTort Law ExpertiseInsurance Law UnderstandingTrial Strategy DevelopmentLegal Writing Skills

Soft Skills

Oral AdvocacyNegotiation SkillsClient Relationship ManagementCommunication Skills

Tools & Technologies

E-Discovery ToolsCase Management Software

Industry Keywords

Insurance DefenseCatastrophic InjuryWrongful DeathProperty DamageProfessional LiabilityTrial Lawyer Associations

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Represent clients in high-exposure and complex insurance defense cases, including catastrophic injury, wrongful death, property damage, and professional liability matters
Develop and execute case strategies, including risk assessment, discovery, motion practice, and trial preparation
Advise clients, insurance carriers, and adjusters on legal issues, case assessments, and developments
Oversee pleadings, discovery, depositions, pre-trial motions, and settlement negotiations
Serve as lead counsel in jury trials, bench trials, and mediations
Supervise and mentor junior attorneys, paralegals, and support staff
Collaborate with medical, forensic, engineering, and economic expert witnesses

Requirements

What you’ll need

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
Active license to practice law in California and eligibility to practice in federal courts
8+ years of experience in insurance defense litigation with a strong focus on complex trial work
Demonstrated success as lead trial counsel in multiple high-stakes cases
Strong knowledge of civil procedure, tort law, insurance law, and trial strategies
Ability to manage and prioritize a large, demanding caseload with limited oversight
Exceptional oral advocacy, legal writing, and negotiation skills
Strong client relationship management skills and ability to communicate complex legal strategies effectively
Experience with e-discovery tools and case management software
Background in catastrophic injury, construction defect, or professional liability cases preferred
Membership in local or national trial lawyer associations is a plus

Benefits

Comp & perks

Annual billable hours bonus ranging from $10,000, with $7,500 for every additional tier
Comprehensive benefits coverage, including health, vision, dental, and life coverage; 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 529 college savings plan ($100-$200/month for full-time attorneys after one year)
Paid parental leave at base pay
Monthly technology reimbursement of $60
Employee Assistance Program through HealthAdvocate
Comprehensive in-house training and leadership development opportunities
Firm-provided CLE programs and paid bar license renewal fees
Flexible vacation policy for attorneys
Defined pathway to partnership
Internal diversity and inclusion programs, including the Women’s Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative
Firm-wide charitable giving program
Social and off-site events each year
Flexible work model: remote, hybrid, or onsite options available