Associate Attorney – Maritime & Admiralty Law

Long Beach, CA | Full-Time

About the Firm

Collier Walsh Nakazawa is a respected maritime and admiralty law firm representing ship owners, marine insurers, port terminals, logistics companies, and maritime industry stakeholders. With a strong presence in California's major port cities, the firm handles complex shipping disputes, marine casualty matters, cargo claims, insurance coverage litigation, and regulatory issues affecting maritime operations.

Our Long Beach office sits at the center of one of the busiest port complexes in the world, providing associates with meaningful exposure to sophisticated maritime clients and high-impact disputes.

About the Role

We are seeking an Associate Attorney with 3–7+ years of litigation experience to join our Long Beach maritime practice. This position offers hands-on responsibility in state and federal courts, direct client interaction, and the opportunity to develop specialized expertise in admiralty and shipping law.

Candidates with maritime experience are strongly preferred; however, attorneys with backgrounds in transportation law, insurance defense, or complex commercial litigation are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

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  Manage and litigate maritime and admiralty matters in California state and federal courts
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  Draft pleadings, motions, discovery, and dispositive filings
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  Conduct and defend depositions
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  Represent clients at hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and trial
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  Advise ship owners, port terminals, and marine industry clients on risk and liability exposure
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  Analyze marine insurance coverage issues
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  Assist with maritime casualty investigations
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  Collaborate with senior attorneys to develop litigation strategy

Qualifications

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  3–7+ years of litigation experience
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  Maritime/admiralty experience preferred
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  Experience in federal court practice strongly preferred
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  Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
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  Ability to independently manage cases and deadlines
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  Excellent communication and client service skills
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  Active California Bar admission (required)

Preferred Experience

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  Marine casualty and cargo litigation
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  Port and terminal liability matters
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  Marine insurance coverage disputes
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  Jones Act or Longshore & Harbor Workers' Compensation Act cases
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  International shipping disputes