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Japanese Attorney Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Corporate Counsel - 2231

Irvine, CA · On-site

$126K - $207K/yr

Kioxia America Inc. is seeking an in-house attorney with experience representing companies on a ... Native/bilingual proficiency or full professional proficiency in Japanese preferred. * Excellent ...

Corporate Counsel - 2231

Irvine, CA · On-site

$126K - $207K/yr

Kioxia America Inc. is seeking an in-house attorney with experience representing companies on a ... Native/bilingual proficiency or full professional proficiency in Japanese preferred. * Excellent ...

Japanese Attorney information

See California salary details

$40K

$97K

$189.5K

How much do japanese attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for japanese attorney in California is $97,043.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Japanese attorney?

A Japanese Attorney, or Bengoshi, is a licensed legal professional in Japan who provides legal advice, represents clients in court, and handles various legal matters, including corporate law, litigation, and contracts. They must pass Japan’s rigorous bar examination and complete a legal apprenticeship. Japanese Attorneys often work in law firms, corporations, or government agencies, assisting both domestic and international clients with legal issues related to Japanese law.

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

To thrive as a Japanese Attorney, you need an in-depth understanding of Japanese law, excellent legal research and analytical skills, and must be licensed to practice as a bengoshi (弁護士). Familiarity with legal databases, case management systems, and official bar or court procedures is essential. Strong communication, negotiation, and intercultural skills help you effectively represent clients and build trust. These competencies enable you to provide high-quality legal counsel, ensure compliance with regulations, and achieve favorable outcomes for clients.

What are the typical career paths and advancement opportunities for Japanese attorneys?

Japanese Attorneys often begin their careers at law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies, handling a range of cases such as corporate law, litigation, or intellectual property. With experience, they may advance to senior associate, partner, or in-house counsel positions, or even become independent practitioners. Attorneys can also specialize in particular fields—for example, international law or mergers and acquisitions—broadening their expertise and potential client base. Career progression typically depends on legal expertise, client relationship skills, and contributions to the firm or organization. Continuous professional development and networking within the legal community are also important for advancement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Japanese Attorney jobs in California?

The most popular types of Japanese Attorney jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Japanese Attorney jobs?

Cities in California with the most Japanese Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Japanese Attorney job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,043 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney Japanese Language Skills + Electrical Engineering / Computer

Direct Counsel

San Jose, CA • Hybrid

$235K - $310K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney – Japanese Language Skills + Electrical Engineering / Computer Science
Locations: Atlanta, GA | Austin, TX | Boston, MA | Chicago, IL | Dallas, TX | Houston, TX | Minneapolis, MN | New York, NY | Orange County, CA | San Diego, CA | Silicon Valley, CA | Washington, DC | Wilmington, DE

Direct Counsel is seeking a Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney to join a leading Am Law 100 firm. This position provides the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies for top-tier clients while collaborating with attorneys who are leaders in intellectual property law. You’ll leverage both your technical background and Japanese language skills to serve as a trusted advisor to some of the world’s most innovative companies.

What You’ll Do:

  • Draft and prosecute patent applications, with a focus on electrical engineering and computer science technologies.

  • Collaborate with Japanese-speaking clients and colleagues, utilizing your bilingual expertise to support global IP strategies.

  • Provide strategic counseling and guidance to clients on complex intellectual property matters.

  • Conduct in-depth technical and legal analysis in a fast-paced environment.

What We’re Looking For:

  • Strong background in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science.

  • Fluency in both English and Japanese (written and spoken).

  • At least 2 years of patent prosecution experience.

  • Active state bar membership and compliance with CLE requirements.

  • Registration before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

  • Superior academic credentials and strong writing skills.

  • Team-oriented mindset with excellent communication and analytical skills.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Salary range of $235,000 – $310,000, commensurate with experience (adjusted for flex-time schedules).

  • Flexible hybrid work environment.

  • Annual technology allowance.

  • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

  • Family-friendly atmosphere with wellness initiatives and back-up childcare support.

If you’re passionate about technology and intellectual property law — and want to leverage your technical expertise and Japanese language skills at a top Am Law 100 firm — we’d love to hear from you.