Pre-Litigation Attorney Associate – Wage & Hour Class Actions & PAGA

Direct Counsel is seeking a Pre-Litigation Attorney Associate to join a growing, technology-driven plaintiff-side employment law firm. The ideal candidate will have experience in wage-and-hour class actions, PAGA litigation, and strategic case evaluation.

This is not a traditional litigation role. The attorney will focus on investigating potential claims, evaluating case viability, developing legal strategies, and preparing matters for litigation, rather than managing an active litigation caseload.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate potential wage-and-hour class actions and PAGA claims through client interviews, factual investigations, and legal analysis.

• Review payroll records, timekeeping data, personnel files, and company policies to identify violations and assess exposure.

• Develop legal theories, evaluate case viability, and recommend litigation strategies.

• Draft complaints and PAGA notices.

• Research class certification, arbitration, and California employment law issues.

• Manage matters from initial vetting through filing, including deadlines and statutes of limitations.

• Coordinate with intake and litigation teams to ensure effective case transitions.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of plaintiff-side wage-and-hour and PAGA class action litigation experience.

• J.D. and active California Bar membership, in good standing.

• Hands-on experience with class certification motions and/or oppositions to motions to compel arbitration.

• Strong legal research, writing, investigative, and issue-spotting skills.

• Excellent judgment, client communication, and case evaluation abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple matters in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

Compensation & Benefits

• $130,000–$180,000 base salary + bonus.

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• 401(k) retirement plan.

• Fully remote work environment.

Why This Opportunity

Join a collaborative, innovative employment law practice where attorneys play a critical role in building strong cases before litigation begins. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney who enjoys strategic case analysis, investigative work, and claim development without the demands of managing a traditional litigation caseload.

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier legal employers and fostering inclusive hiring practices.