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Senior Counsel (Employment Defense)

Fresno, CA

Join Tyson & Mendes – Senior Counsel, Complex Trial Teams (Employment Defense) 

Where Insurance Defense Meets Innovation 

Please note: An active bar license in the State of California is required. 

At Tyson & Mendes, we don’t just litigate—we lead. As a national force in insurance defense and trial advocacy, we’re known for our bold mission to stop Nuclear Verdicts® and our results-driven approach to high-exposure litigation. We are expanding our Complex Trial Teams and seeking accomplished Senior Counsel with deep experience in employment defense to take a lead role in complex, high-stakes litigation. 

If you are a seasoned trial attorney who thrives on nuanced employment disputes, evolving workplace law, and the strategic demands of defending employers, this is your opportunity to shape the future of employment litigation. 

Why Tyson & Mendes? 

Lead with Impact – As Senior Counsel focused on employment matters, you’ll take ownership of high-value wrongful termination, discrimination, harassment, and wage and hour cases—with full support from a firm built for trial success. 

Elite Training + Resources – From our Trial Academy to dedicated litigation support and legal tech, we equip you to lead confidently in and out of the courtroom. 

Stability + Momentum – Join a financially strong, nationally scaled firm with an agile, no-silos culture committed to long-term success for clients and attorneys alike. 

Authentic Inclusion – We believe the best ideas come from diverse perspectives. At Tyson & Mendes, inclusion is not just a value—it’s how we win. 

Flexible Work Options – Office, hybrid, or remote—we prioritize performance and results, not where you work. 

Who You Are 

You are a trial-tested litigator with extensive experience defending employers in complex civil litigation. You bring a deep understanding of employment law, including FEHA, Title VII, ADA, FMLA, wage and hour regulations, and PAGA claims. You lead with confidence, communicate with clarity, and navigate sensitive, high-exposure issues with discretion and strategy. With a strong defense mindset and the ability to mentor and inspire legal teams, you’re ready to take the next step in your litigation career at a firm that values leadership, integrity, and results. 

Make Your Move. Be part of something bigger—join Tyson & Mendes and help shape the future of insurance defense. Apply today. We’re ready for your best. 

Responsibilities 

  • Develop a case theme that is more compelling than any plaintiff ploy for sympathy or anger 
  • Refuse to accept mediocrity, the average, the standard or the norm in anything 
  • Independently handle court appearances, depositions, briefs and trials 
  • Work as part of a team with all levels of experiences 
  • Routine communications with clients 
  • Cultivate relationships with the firm’s existing and future clients 
  • Provide leadership and direction with respect to less experienced attorneys 

  

Requirements 

  • JD from an ABA approved school 
  • Must be licensed in the State of California
  • 8+ years of solid litigation experience, specifically with litigation support, deposition and trial preparation 
  • Ability to manage full case handling responsibilities, including all facets of discovery and trial 
  • Experience handling insurance defense matters preferred 
  • Experience with time management systems 
  • Proficiency in MS Suite, specifically Word, PowerPoint and Outlook 
  • Ability to think and act independently and with minimal supervision 
  • Outstanding listening, verbal and written communication skills 
  • Professional appearance and demeanor 

  

Benefits 

  • Guaranteed bonus structure for attorneys and paralegals  
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans (some at no cost to the employee)  
  • Student loan repayment assistance OR 529 college savings program for attorneys  
  • 401K matching  
  • Paid parental leave  
  • Flexible vacation policy for attorneys  
  • Internal education and leadership development programs  
  • Pathway to partnership for attorneys  
  • Internal diversity and inclusion programs, such as the Women’s Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative  
  • Firm-wide charitable giving program  
  • Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues  
  • Employee Assistance Program through HealthAdvocate  
  • Access to Maven resources for new parents through Blue Shield 

 

About Tyson & Mendes 

Click here to learn more about the Tyson & Mendes Office!  (944) The Tyson & Mendes Office - YouTube 

We’re one of the fastest-growing civil defense firms in the country—known for breaking the mold of the traditional law firm. Our dynamic, diverse team of trial attorneys delivers exceptional results, from landmark cases like Howell v. Hamilton Meats to numerous defense verdicts across the nation. 

But we don’t stop at great legal work—we invest in our people. With specialized training in our proven defense methods, clear paths to leadership, and robust professional development, we empower attorneys to grow their careers, build their personal brands, and become leaders in the field. 

Follow along with the firm on Twitter and LinkedIn or visit www.tysonmendes.com.   

Equal Opportunity Employer Notice 

OK, now for the legal copy (we are a law firm, after all). It is Tyson & Mendes’ policy to ensure equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors. By the way, if you read all of this, congratulations – we can already tell your attention to detail is exceptional. 

NOTICE TO APPLICANTS/EMPLOYEES OF TYSON & MENDES: Please take notice that the Firm collects certain information about you. For more information on the Firm’s policies, please refer to the document provided here. 

No recruiters/agencies  

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Pay Range

$160,000 - $190,000 USD

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