Senior Unlawful Detainer / Litigation Attorney

Wallace, Richardson, Sontag & Le, LLP is a high-volume California litigation firm representing landlords, property owners, property management companies, and financial institutions throughout the state. Based in Irvine, the firm has a substantial and growing unlawful detainer and housing litigation practice, with a strong presence in Orange County and Los Angeles County.

We are seeking an experienced unlawful detainer attorney ready to step into a senior, leadership-oriented role and help expand a well-established UD platform. This position is designed for an attorney who has mastered the mechanics of unlawful detainers and is looking for greater autonomy, stronger economics, and a meaningful opportunity for long-term growth.

The Opportunity:

This is not an entry-level or training position.

The successful candidate will:

• Assume responsibility for a substantial unlawful detainer and related litigation docket
• Serve as a senior point of contact for firm clients
• Help expand client relationships and firm capacity
• Play an active role in shaping litigation strategy, systems, and workflows
• Have a clear path to increased compensation tied to performance and growth

Attorneys with an existing book of business, or the desire and ability to develop one, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Lead unlawful detainer matters from notice review through trial and post-judgment proceedings
• Handle contested trials, evidentiary hearings, and settlement conferences
• Supervise and mentor junior attorneys and support staff, as appropriate
• Draft, review, and strategize pleadings, motions, oppositions, and replies
• Advise clients on litigation strategy, risk management, and operational issues
• Assist in expanding and strengthening client relationships
• Collaborate with firm leadership on workflow, staffing, and practice growth

​​Qualifications

• Active member in good standing with the State Bar of California
• Significant experience handling unlawful detainer matters
• Strong trial skills and courtroom presence
• Excellent legal writing, analytical, and issue-spotting abilities
• Professional, confident, and client-focused demeanor
• Entrepreneurial mindset with an interest in practice growth
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative firm culture

Schedule & Work Environment

• Full-time, in-person position
• Regular court appearances in Orange County and Los Angeles County
• High-autonomy role with meaningful decision-making responsibility

Compensation & Benefits

• Base compensation starting at $200,000–$250,000+, commensurate with experience
• Performance-based and growth-based compensation upside
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Mileage reimbursement for court travel
• Robust administrative and litigation support
• Clear path for long-term growth, leadership, and advancement

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $200,000.00 - $250,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person