We are looking for Employment Law Partner – School District Defense for our client - to lead its School District Defense practice. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned attorney with deep expertise in public sector employment law and a proven record of advising and defending educational institutions. The position offers the ability to work across multiple California offices, with flexibility and strong career growth potential in a collaborative, well-respected firm.
Details:
Location: Multiple California offices (El Segundo, Fresno, Oakland, Ontario, Orange, Redding, Sacramento, San Diego, San Jose, Westlake Village)
Position Type: Full-time, hybrid/onsite
Relocation: Not offered
Visa Support: Not available
Key Responsibilities
- Represent school districts in employment disputes, including wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
- Lead all phases of litigation (discovery, motion practice, trial preparation, resolution).
- Manage agency complaints with EEOC, state labor boards, and other governing bodies.
- Advise school leaders, HR departments, and boards on compliance with Title IX, ADA, FMLA, and related statutes.
- Provide proactive legal strategies to mitigate risks, including union and collective bargaining matters.
- Draft and review employment contracts, policies, and procedures to ensure legal alignment.
- Guide schools on compliance with disciplinary actions, tenure processes, and termination practices.
- Deliver workshops and training sessions for administrators, HR teams, and boards.
- Provide best practices in employee relations and litigation prevention.
Qualifications
- Minimum 8 years of employment law experience, with at least 80% focused on employment litigation in the past 5 years.
- Proven experience representing school districts or public entities in defense litigation.
- Civil trial experience preferred (1st or 2nd chair).
- Must have defense-side litigation experience only.
- Active member in good standing with the California State Bar.
Why Join Us?
- Career Impact: Opportunity to lead high-profile cases in the education sector.
- Flexibility: Remote flexibility plus access to offices across California.
- Unlimited PTO: Generous leave policy designed for work-life balance.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, pet insurance, and 401(k) with employer match.
- Culture & Community: Collaborative environment, team events, and holiday celebrations.