Litigation Associate Attorney (1-3 Years)

Summary

Van Dyke & Associates, APLC is a boutique trust, probate, and estate litigation firm in San Diego. Since 1998, we have represented beneficiaries, trustees, and families in contested fiduciary matters in California Superior Court and the Courts of Appeal. We are hiring a junior litigation associate (1-3 years of experience) to join our close-knit, in-office team.

This is a hands-on role with early responsibility, direct partner mentorship, and meaningful courtroom and client exposure in a focused, high-caliber practice.

Responsibilities:

Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, and trial documents in trust, probate, and fiduciary litigation matters.

Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda on California trust, estate, and probate law.

Manage discovery, including document review, deposition preparation, and written discovery.

Appear at hearings and case management conferences, and support partners at trial.

Communicate directly with clients, opposing counsel, and the court.

Manage case files and deadlines across an active litigation docket.

Qualifications:

1-3 years of civil litigation experience (trust, probate, or estate litigation strongly preferred).

Active membership in the State Bar of California and in good standing.

Excellent legal writing, research, and analytical skills.

Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple matters.

A self-motivated team player who thrives in a small-firm, in-office environment.

Compensation: $110,000 - $150,000 per year, commensurate with experience, plus benefits.

Location: On-site in San Diego, California.

Job Description

Van Dyke & Associates, APLC is a boutique trust, probate, and estate litigation firm in San Diego. Since 1998, we have represented beneficiaries, trustees, and families in contested fiduciary matters in California Superior Court and the Courts of Appeal. We are hiring a junior litigation associate (1-3 years of experience) to join our close-knit, in-office team.

This is a hands-on role with early responsibility, direct partner mentorship, and meaningful courtroom and client exposure in a focused, high-caliber practice.

Responsibilities:

Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, and trial documents in trust, probate, and fiduciary litigation matters.

Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda on California trust, estate, and probate law.

Manage discovery, including document review, deposition preparation, and written discovery.

Appear at hearings and case management conferences, and support partners at trial.

Communicate directly with clients, opposing counsel, and the court.

Manage case files and deadlines across an active litigation docket.

Qualifications:

1-3 years of civil litigation experience (trust, probate, or estate litigation strongly preferred).

Active membership in the State Bar of California and in good standing.

Excellent legal writing, research, and analytical skills.

Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple matters.

A self-motivated team player who thrives in a small-firm, in-office environment.

Compensation: $110,000 - $150,000 per year, commensurate with experience, plus benefits.

Location: On-site in San Diego, California.