ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Attorney Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Direct Counsel

Contract Attorney

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$45.50/hr

Contract Attorney Location: San Francisco or Los Angeles, CA Schedule: Hybrid (1 day in office per week) Compensation: $45.50 per hour Engagement Type: Contract Assignment Direct Counsel is seeking ...

Direct Counsel

Contract Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$45.50/hr

Contract Attorney Location: San Francisco or Los Angeles, CA Schedule: Hybrid (1 day in office per week) Compensation: $45.50 per hour Engagement Type: Contract Assignment Direct Counsel is seeking ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract Attorney JobsContract Attorney Jobs in California

Contract Attorney information

See California salary details

$51.3K

$117.6K

$197.4K

How much do contract attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract attorney in California is $117,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,300.00 and $137,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Attorney vs Staff Attorney?

AspectContract AttorneyStaff Attorney
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice lawJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice law
Work EnvironmentTemporary, project-based, often remote or on-siteFull-time, permanent, typically office-based
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporations, government agencies for specific projectsLaw firms, legal departments, courts for ongoing legal work
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Contract Attorneys are hired for specific projects or durations, offering flexibility and specialized expertise. Staff Attorneys hold permanent positions within organizations, providing ongoing legal support. Both roles require a JD and legal licensure but differ mainly in employment type and work setting.

What is a contract attorney?

A contract attorney conducts research, prepares legal documents, and represents clients in a court of law. Contract attorneys are not permanent employees of law firms; they handle cases on behalf of law firms on a case-by-case basis. Much like standard attorneys, contract attorneys may specialize in a specific legal area, such as corporate law, family law, or criminal law. Law firms expect contract attorneys to uphold the same legal standards as traditional attorneys.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract attorney?

To thrive as a Contract Attorney, you need a solid understanding of contract law, strong legal research abilities, and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree with bar admission. Proficiency with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, and familiarity with document management systems, are typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, negotiation skills, and clear written and verbal communication distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are crucial for drafting, reviewing, and interpreting complex contracts while protecting clients' interests and minimizing legal risks.

What are the typical challenges a contract attorney faces when managing multiple clients or cases simultaneously?

Contract Attorneys often juggle several assignments from various clients or law firms, which can present challenges in time management, prioritization, and maintaining clear communication. Each client may have different expectations, document management systems, and deadlines, making it essential to stay organized and proactive in scheduling. Developing strong project management skills and using legal technology tools can help Contract Attorneys efficiently track tasks, ensure confidentiality, and meet deliverables across diverse projects.
More about Contract Attorney jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in California? The most popular types of Attorney jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Attorney jobs in California? For Contract Attorney jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Attorney jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Attorney jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Attorney jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Attorney job openings:
Contract Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Attorney job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 76% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,627 per year, or $56.6 per hour.

Contract Attorney

Direct Counsel

San Francisco, CA • Hybrid

$45.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Contract Attorney

Location: San Francisco or Los Angeles, CA
Schedule: Hybrid (1 day in office per week)
Compensation: $45.50 per hour
Engagement Type: Contract Assignment

Direct Counsel is seeking two Contract Attorneys for a respected public agency. This is a hybrid opportunity requiring one day per week in either the San Francisco or Los Angeles office.

This engagement is ideal for junior-to-mid-level attorneys with strong research and writing skills and experience supporting investigative or regulatory matters.

Key Responsibilities

  • Review investigation files for completeness and procedural accuracy

  • Identify issues implicating attorney disciplinary rules

  • Conduct factual and legal research

  • Draft legal memoranda and written correspondence

  • Prepare communications to complainants and attorneys

  • Support the closure process for complaint matters

  • Assist with investigative documentation and analysis

Required Qualifications

  • Active California Bar license (required)

  • Minimum 2+ years of attorney experience (junior-level acceptable)

  • Strong legal research and writing skills

  • Experience drafting motions and/or appellate briefs

  • Experience writing legal memoranda (court staff attorney or clerkship experience preferred)

  • Experience supporting investigations (e.g., compliance investigations, workplace investigations, regulatory reviews)

Compensation & Compliance Notes

  • Hourly pay: $45.50

  • Candidates must not be current or former members of CalPERS

Ideal Candidate Profile

We are seeking attorneys who are analytical, detail-oriented, and comfortable working independently within a structured review framework. Strong written communication and issue-spotting ability are essential.