Contract Employment Litigation Attorney

About the role

I own the full lifecycle of employment litigation matters assigned through the DWTSurge alternative‑track contract attorney program. I manage single‑plaintiff disputes and PAGA or class action defense from initial complaint through final resolution. I work directly with client teams and outside stakeholders to develop and execute litigation strategies that protect employer interests. I draft and file motions, responses, and discovery requests while maintaining strict case organization and deadlines. I exercise independent judgment to analyze facts, assess risk, and recommend efficient paths to favorable outcomes. I communicate advocacy clearly in writing and speaking, ensuring every submission meets high standards of persuasion and precision. I remain responsive to client needs while adhering to confidential handling and ethical obligations under California and federal rules.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Manage end‑to‑end defense of employment litigation, including single‑plaintiff and PAGA/class action matters.
• Draft pleadings, dispositive motions, discovery requests, and responsive documents with meticulous attention to form and substance.
• Lead case preparation and settlement negotiations, coordinating with client personnel and opposing counsel as needed.
• Conduct legal research and synthesize complex statutes, regulations, and case law into practical strategies.
• Produce high‑quality written work product under tight deadlines while maintaining accuracy and consistency.
• Organize case files, timelines, and documents to support efficient review and decision‑making.
• Communicate proactively with clients, firm partners, and support staff to align on objectives and case status.
• Monitor competing deadlines across multiple matters and adjust priorities to meet firm and client commitments.
• Represent client interests in meet‑and‑confer sessions and other interactions with opposing parties.
• Utilize technology and e‑discovery tools to streamline document review and production tasks.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with ethical rules governing remote practice and data security.
• Collaborate with firm resources to leverage training, templates, and best practices on employment law developments.
• Support large institutional clients by providing responsive, client‑focused service on urgent matters.
• Assist in developing internal guidance and checklists to improve team efficiency and quality.
• Participate in knowledge‑sharing activities that strengthen the practice group's collective expertise.

Requirements

• Possess 5 or more years of employment litigation experience in a mid‑size or large law firm or in‑house department.
• Hold active bar admission and reside in California, with the ability to practice in California state and federal courts.
• Demonstrate comprehensive experience managing all phases of employment defense litigation.
• Show proven ability to handle single‑plaintiff litigation and PAGA or class action cases.
• Have a strong grasp of California employment statutes, regulations, and related federal laws.
• Exhibit strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Deliver excellent oral and written advocacy with precise, clear, and persuasive communication.
• Work effectively with minimal supervision while maintaining meticulous attention to detail.
• Manage multiple matters concurrently and meet firm and client deadlines reliably.
• Operate comfortably in a fully remote environment and handle a high volume of litigation tasks.
• Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, judgment, and client service.
• Be available to work approximately 20-40 hours per week and maintain Pacific Standard Time business hours.
• Remain flexible regarding hours that may fluctuate based on workload demands.
• Be willing to engage on an exclusive basis through the DWTSurge program as a contract attorney.

Nice to have

Only preferred qualifications listed in the official source are reflected here, and no additional preferences are added.

Practical notes

This is a temporary contract position managed through DWT's DWTSurge program. Compensation is paid on an hourly basis, commensurate with experience and skill level, and is detailed in the official posting. This role is not eligible for benefits. Hours are anticipated at 20-40 per week, with the possibility of fluctuation based on workload. The expected start is as soon as possible, with an anticipated end in late February or early March 2026. There is a possibility of extension or renewal for successful candidates, though no guarantee is provided. The position requires remote work availability and adherence to West Coast business hours. Applicants must be admitted to practice in California and able to accommodate California employment litigation matters.

Compensation

The hourly range for this position in California is $130 to $160 per hour. Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience and other job‑related factors permitted by law. Compensation will be paid on an hourly basis through the DWTSurge program. This role is not eligible for benefits, bonuses, or firm pro bono, DEI, or other activities outside the stated scope of work.

Application instructions

To apply, send your resume and cover letter to DWTSurge Recruiter, Zoё Melcher, at zoemelcher@dwt.com. The firm is currently not accepting third‑party submissions for this opportunity.

Additional benefits and wellness programs

Additional benefits include First Stop Health telemedicine, TELUS Health Employee Assistance Program, voluntary Pet Insurance, and Milk Stork virtual lactation consulting, breast milk shipping, and nutritional testing. Wellness benefits include access to the Peloton App and Headspace App. Paid sick leave is accrued biweekly at a rate of 1 hour per 30 hours worked in Washington State and California.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

Davis Wright Tremaine LLP embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. The firm brings out the best in every individual and fosters strong, lasting connections with colleagues, clients, and communities. DEI sits on four pillars: Community, Growth, Education, and Engagement. The firm requests voluntary demographic data to support these efforts, stored securely and accessible only by Talent Acquisition and HR.

Equal opportunity statement

In accordance with firm policy, employment decisions are made without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, religion, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, medical condition, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants and employees during the hiring process and work performance.

Bar admission and eligibility

Applicants must be admitted to practice in California and able to meet the requirements of California employment litigation matters. Licensing, good standing, and eligibility verification are part of the assessment for this role.

Technology and remote practice

Successful candidates will use secure platforms for document management, communication, and e‑discovery. The ability to work independently in a remote setting while maintaining confidentiality and ethical compliance is essential.

Client service commitment

The firm is an AmLaw 100 organization with a national presence and a focus on responsive, high‑quality client service. Candidates who align with this commitment and can demonstrate reliability, professionalism, and teamwork are strongly encouraged to apply.