Appellate Court Attorney – Division Three

Overview

Division Three of the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District located in Los Angeles, is accepting applications for a research attorney.  

The attorney will work collaboratively with the justice in the preparation of opinions. The types of cases presented are varied, and the attorney will get civil and criminal law experience at the appellate level in an environment providing significant responsibility and challenge.  
 

Responsibilities

• Reviewing appellate briefs and trial court records;
• Thoroughly researching and analyzing existing law; drafting clear, concise and well-reasoned memoranda and initial drafts of opinions;
• Reviewing and proofreading opinions;
• Making recommendations regarding the resolution of legal issues pending before the court; and performing other tasks as assigned by the justice.
• Excellent analytical, writing, and research skills are mandatory, along with collegiality, a strong work ethic, and a dedication to excellence.
• Candidates must be able to work independently on complex legal issues, organize their own work, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Desirable qualifications include state or federal clerking experience or familiarity with appellate practice.
   

Qualifications

Level A:    Active membership in the State Bar of California.

Level B:    Active membership in the State Bar of California and the equivalent of two
years of post-bar legal experience in a legal setting such as a private law practice, corporation, government agency, law school, court, or legal publishing company.

OR

Equivalent to two years of post-bar legal experience in a legal setting as described above, including one year of experience as an appellate attorney, Level A, with the judicial branch
        
Level C:    Active membership in the State Bar of California and the equivalent of three
years of post-bar legal experience in a legal setting such as a private law practice,
corporation, government agency, law school, court, or legal publishing company.

OR

One year of experience as an appellate attorney, Level B, with the judicial branch.

Level D:      Active membership in the State Bar of California and the equivalent of four
years of post-bar legal experience in a legal setting such as a private law practice,
corporation, government agency, law school, court, or legal publishing company.

OR

One year of experience as an appellate attorney, Level C, with the judicial branch.
 

How To Apply

The following items are required.

• Completed online application
• Cover letter
• Resume
• Writing Sample

For earliest consideration, please apply by October 23, 2026, and include all required items listed above. Applying early is encouraged, as application review and screening will occur on a rolling basis. The position will remain open until it is filled.

The Judicial Council provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities who request such accommodation. Reasonable accommodation needs should be requested through Human Resources at (415) 865-4260. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) is available by dialing 711. Once connected, provide the relay operator with the number for Human Resources: 415-865-4260.
 

Pay and Benefits

SALARY

Level A:    $6,886 per month

Level B:      $8,332 to $10,582 per month
(Starting salary will be between $8,332 to $9,165 per month)

Level C:     $9,158 to $11,640 per month
(Starting salary will be between $9,158 to $10,074 per month)

Level D:     $10,541 to $14,069 per month
(Starting salary will vary between $10,541 to $11,595 per month)

Salary is based on qualifications and experience.

Please note due to statewide fiscal conditions, the posted salary range is subject to a temporary 3% reduction. In exchange for this reduction, judicial branch employees accrue an additional 5 hours of paid personal leave per month through June 30, 2027.
 

BENEFITS:

• Health/Dental/Vision benefits program
• 14 paid holidays per calendar year
• Choice of Annual Leave or Sick/Vacation Leave
• 1 personal holiday per year
• Up to $130 per month reimbursement for qualifying commuting costs
• CalPERS Retirement Plan
• 401(k) and 457 deferred compensation plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• FlexElect Program
• Long Term Disability Program (employee paid/optional)
• Group Legal Plan (employee paid/optional)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility
   

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.