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First Amendment Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Trial & Litigation Attorney

Oakland, CA · On-site

$190K - $300K/yr

Bonus points if you have experience representing public entities, eminent domain, land use litigation, or constitutional law (takings, §1983, First Amendment). What you'll do: * Lead and second ...

Attorney- 3605834

Tustin, CA · Hybrid

$150K - $190K/yr

Address student-related legal issues such as First Amendment concerns, FERPA, student discipline, and conduct hearings.  Qualifications: * Juris Doctor degree from accredited law school. * Member ...

Litigation Associate

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$185K - $245K/yr

First Amendment and takings claims * Class action litigation * Eminent domain matters involving major infrastructure projects (transit, stadiums, and public works) Attorneys are actively involved in ...

Litigation Associate

Alameda, CA · Hybrid

$185K - $245K/yr

First Amendment and takings claims * Class action litigation * Eminent domain matters involving major infrastructure projects (transit, stadiums, and public works) Attorneys are actively involved in ...

Uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity and champion First Amendment principles. * Oversee print, newsletters, social media channels, website operations and future audience engagement ...

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First Amendment information

What is the difference between First Amendment vs Paralegal?

AspectFirst AmendmentParalegal
Required CredentialsNone; constitutional knowledge beneficialAssociate's degree or paralegal certification
Work EnvironmentLegal settings, government, advocacy groupsLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
Industry UsageLegal, government, advocacyLegal support, research, document preparation

The First Amendment refers to constitutional rights protecting free speech, religion, and assembly, often discussed in legal and advocacy contexts. A paralegal is a legal support professional assisting attorneys with research, documentation, and case preparation. While both operate within the legal industry, the First Amendment is a constitutional concept, whereas a paralegal is a job role supporting legal processes.

What are some common challenges faced by First Amendment lawyers when handling cases involving freedom of speech?

First Amendment lawyers often navigate complex legal and ethical challenges, particularly when balancing the right to free speech with other societal interests such as public safety, national security, or the prevention of hate speech. They must stay current with evolving jurisprudence, as court decisions frequently refine the boundaries of protected speech. Additionally, these attorneys regularly collaborate with clients, courts, and sometimes advocacy organizations to build persuasive arguments while managing intense public scrutiny. The work can involve both litigation and advisory roles, requiring strong research, writing, and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Amendment lawyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Amendment lawyer, you need expertise in constitutional law, strong research and writing abilities, and a Juris Doctor degree with bar admission. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and experience with court filing systems are typically required. Excellent oral advocacy, analytical thinking, and negotiation skills help set top performers apart in this field. These qualifications are essential for effectively defending clients’ rights and navigating the complex legal landscape of free speech and related issues.

What are First Amendment lawyers?

First Amendment lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in issues related to the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, which protects freedoms such as speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. They represent clients in cases involving free speech rights, freedom of religion, and censorship, often defending individuals, journalists, organizations, or media outlets. These lawyers may work in private practice, for nonprofit organizations, or as part of advocacy groups, and they play a crucial role in upholding constitutional liberties.
What job categories do people searching First Amendment jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Amendment jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for First Amendment jobs? Cities in California with the most First Amendment job openings:
Infographic showing various First Amendment job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution.
Trial & Litigation Attorney

Trial & Litigation Attorney

Talent Search PRO

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$190K - $300K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

The salary range for this role is $190,000 - $300,000/year
What we're looking for:
We need a senior associate or of counsel with 7+ years of sophisticated civil litigation experience who has significant law-and-motion practice in state and federal court, including dispositive motions. You should be comfortable owning cases, arguing motions, taking and defending depositions, and building cases for trial. Bonus points if you have experience representing public entities, eminent domain, land use litigation, or constitutional law (takings, §1983, First Amendment).
What you'll do:
  • Lead and second-chair complex civil litigation in California state and federal courts, with a partial focus on eminent domain (condemnation, inverse condemnation, valuation disputes)
  • Draft and argue dispositive and substantive law-and-motion, including demurrers, MSJ/MSA, anti-SLAPP motions, and writ proceedings
  • Build cases for trial: develop case theory, evidence strategy, expert work-up, witness interviews, and take and defend depositions
  • Handle constitutional litigation for public entities, including First Amendment, due process, equal protection, takings, and civil rights/§1983 defense matters
  • Advise public-entity clients (cities, counties, special districts, school districts) on litigation risk, settlement strategy, and case management
  • Collaborate across offices and mentor junior associates while managing matters with partner oversight