Half-Time Appellate Court Attorney (Downtown Los Angeles)

About This Job

The California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District, based in Los Angeles, is currently seeking applicants for a part-time appellate attorney role within its central staff unit.

This role offers a direct opportunity to engage with the Court\'s caseload, which spans civil, criminal, and dependency matters. Central staff attorneys provide support to several justices, stepping in to assist with research and drafting as required. The position is intellectually demanding while also offering flexibility, making it an excellent fit for seasoned professionals seeking work-life balance or for attorneys looking to expand their appellate practice skills.

The appointed attorney will be responsible for examining appellate briefs and trial records, conducting research on complex legal questions, and preparing preliminary drafts of judicial opinions. Additional duties include reviewing and proofreading opinions, as well as other assignments from the managing attorney or justices.

Ideal candidates will possess superior analytical, research, and legal writing abilities; a keen eye for detail and the capacity to work autonomously; and a proven dedication to delivering precise, high-caliber work. Prior experience in appellate practice is advantageous but not mandatory.

This half-time role provides flexible scheduling and, where feasible, opportunities for remote work. Compensation will be aligned with the candidate\'s qualifications and professional background.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Level A: Active membership in the State Bar of California.
• Level B: Active membership in the State Bar of California plus two years of post-bar legal experience in a setting such as private practice, a corporation, government, a law school, a court, or legal publishing. Alternatively, two years of such experience, including one year as an appellate attorney, Level A, within the judicial branch.
• Level C: Active membership in the State Bar of California plus three years of post-bar legal experience. Alternatively, one year of experience as an appellate attorney, Level B, within the judicial branch.
• Level D: Active membership in the State Bar of California plus four years of post-bar legal experience. Alternatively, one year of experience as an appellate attorney, Level C, within the judicial branch.

SALARY (HALF-TIME)

• Level A: $3,443 monthly
• Level B: $4,166 to $5,291 monthly (Starting salary between $4,166 and $4,582.50)
• Level C: $4,579 to $5,820 monthly (Starting salary between $4,579 and $5,037)
• Level D: $5,270.50 to $7,034.50 monthly (Starting salary between $5,270.50 and $5,797.50)

Please note that due to statewide fiscal conditions, the listed salary range is subject to a temporary 3% reduction. In exchange, judicial branch employees will accrue an additional 5 hours of paid personal leave monthly through June 30, 2027.

HOW TO APPLY

Apply online at http://www.aaalist.ca.gov/careers

The following application materials are required:

1. A completed online application
2. A cover letter
3. A resume
4. A writing sample

For earliest consideration, please submit your application by November 14, 2025.

BENEFITS

• Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• 13 paid holidays annually
• 1 personal holiday per year
• Choice between annual leave or separate sick and vacation leave
• $130 monthly transit pass subsidy
• CalPERS Retirement Plan
• 401K and 457 deferred compensation plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• FlexElect Program
• Long Term Disability insurance
• Long Term Care insurance
• Group Legal Plan

The Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.