Cardiff-by-the-Sea, CA | Full-Time, On-Site or Hybrid | $150,000–$200,000 DOE + Defined Bonus & Origination Credit

Take ownership of sophisticated trust and probate litigation at a firm built on excellence.

Tresp Law is a distinguished estate planning, probate, and asset protection firm serving discerning clients throughout San Diego County. As demand for our litigation practice grows, we are seeking a seasoned Senior Litigation Associate to lead complex contested trust and probate matters — someone who combines courtroom skill with the judgment and discretion these sensitive, high-stakes disputes demand.

This is a substantive role with real autonomy. You will carry your own caseload, shape strategy, and work directly with clients and partners — not sit on the sidelines of someone else’s matters.

What you’ll handle

• Litigate contested trust, probate, and estate matters — will and trust contests, fiduciary disputes, breach of fiduciary duty claims, accounting and surcharge actions, conservatorships, and related proceedings
• Manage cases from intake through trial: pleadings, discovery, motion practice, depositions, mediation, and courtroom advocacy
• Develop case strategy and provide thoughtful, candid counsel to clients navigating difficult family and financial circumstances
• Appear in Probate Court and Civil Court and related proceedings
• Mentor junior attorneys and support staff, contributing to the growth of the litigation practice

What we’re looking for

• Active membership in the State Bar of California in good standing
• 5+ years of civil litigation experience, with meaningful exposure to trust, probate, or estate litigation
• Demonstrated ability to manage a litigation caseload independently
• Strong command of California probate and trust law and the Probate Code
• Excellent legal writing, oral advocacy, and analytical skills
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and genuine care for clients during sensitive disputes

Welcomed, though not required

• Trial experience in probate or fiduciary matters
• Experience with mediation and alternative dispute resolution
• A portable book of business (an asset, not a requirement — see our origination credit below)

Compensation & bonus structure

We offer a competitive base salary of $150,000–$200,000 depending on experience and book of business, complemented by a defined, transparent bonus structure designed to reward the attorneys who drive our practice forward:

• Performance bonus. Defined performance bonus tied to billable productivity and case outcomes — clear targets, not discretionary guesswork.
• Origination bonus. Origination credit on business you bring to or generate for the firm, paid as a defined percentage of collected fees for the life of the client relationship. Your book grows your earnings here.
• Discretionary bonus. Year-end discretionary bonuses recognizing exceptional contribution and firm performance.

Why Tresp Law

• Substantive, high-quality work. Sophisticated matters and real responsibility, without the bureaucracy of a large firm.
• Autonomy and mentorship. The independence to own your cases, supported by experienced partners invested in your success.
• Full benefits. Health insurance, 401(k), generous paid time off, and a defined bonus and origination structure.
• A path to advance. We are a growing firm and we promote from within — there is genuine room to build your career, reputation, and book here.
• Setting and culture. A beautiful coastal office and a collegial, values-driven team.

Schedule

Full-time, on-site in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, across the street from the beach. Hybrid potential for the right candidate.

If you are an accomplished litigator who wants meaningful work, real ownership, and a firm that values both excellence and integrity, we would be glad to speak with you.

To apply

Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your trust and probate litigation experience. Writing samples may be requested.

Pay: $150,000.00 - $200,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person