The Opportunity
Murtaugh LLP is seeking a mid-level Business Litigation Attorney (5–8 years) to join our Irvine office. This role focuses on complex disputes involving:
- Partnership and shareholder disputes
- Business torts and breach of fiduciary duty
- Real estate litigation (quiet title, co-ownership disputes, commercial property conflicts)
- Breach of contract and commercial disputes
- Construction defect and delay claims
We are not looking for a generalist. We are looking for a lawyer who wants to build depth in sophisticated business and real estate litigation and take meaningful responsibility on high-impact matters.
Why This Role Is Different
This is not a “sit in the background” position. We are looking for a self-starter who takes initiative, drives cases forward, and actively shapes strategy. We are not seeking someone who waits to be assigned the next task.
You will:
- Have direct client contact
- Develop case strategy with partners
- Take and defend depositions
- Argue motions
- Attend mediations
- Play a meaningful role in trial preparation
If you want ownership, mentorship, and a clear path forward — this is that opportunity.
About Murtaugh LLP
Founded in 1979, Murtaugh LLP is a Irvine-based firm with a strong presence in business litigation, real estate, construction, corporate transactions, and trusts & estates. We have approximately 20 lawyers and are growing our litigation team to meet increasing demand in business disputes throughout Southern California.
Compensation & Benefits
- Base Salary: $160,000 – $225,000 DOE
- Performance-based and discretionary bonus opportunities
- Reasonable billable hour expectations
- Unlimited PTO
- 401(k) with 3% firm contribution
- Full medical, dental & vision coverage
- Subsidized ClassPass membership
- Strong administrative and paralegal support (2–3:1 attorney-to-secretary ratio)
Culture & Growth
- Direct partner mentoring
- Monthly attorney dinners
- Ongoing litigation training
- Clear path for advancement
- Collegial, team-oriented environment
We believe strong lawyers thrive in collaborative environments with real support and real opportunity.
Qualifications
- 5+ years of California litigation experience
- Licensed and in good standing with the State Bar of California
- Experience in business disputes, partnership litigation, commercial contract disputes, or real estate litigation
- Strong motion practice and deposition experience
- Excellent legal writing and advocacy skills
- Client-facing confidence and professionalism
- Self-starter with strong initiative (we are looking for someone who proactively drives cases forward, identifies strategic opportunities, and takes ownership rather than waiting for direction)
Who This Is Perfect For
- A mid-level associate ready for more responsibility
- A litigator at a large firm seeking better culture and partnership visibility
- A business litigation attorney who wants more courtroom and strategy exposure
If you're ready to handle meaningful business disputes in a collaborative, growth-oriented firm, we’d love to connect.
