Complex Liability Defense Attorney – Ski Resorts

Wilson Elser - Attorneys · Los Angeles, California

Legal / Compliance Los Angeles Orange County Posted Mar 24, 2026 200,000 – 230,000 USD

Wilson Elser is a leading defense litigation law firm with more than 1400 attorneys in 46 offices throughout the United States. Founded in 1978, we rank among the top 100 law firms identified by The American Lawyer and 36 in the National Law Journal’s survey of the nation’s largest law firms.

Wilson Elser's Los Angeles/Orange County office is currently seeking a Complex Liability Defense Attorney - Ski Resorts to join a team of talented professionals in a collaborative, collegial environment. Our firm is committed to developing professionals who value each other and the service we provide through Teamwork, Collaboration, Client Service, and Innovation. If you are a motivated professional looking for a long-term fit, where you can grow in a role, and be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply.

This position offers a flexible, hybrid or remote working arrangement.

The Position

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced attorney to represent and defend ski resorts and mountain recreation operators in litigation and advisory matters. This role focuses on civil defense involving personal injury claims, premises liability, risk management, and regulatory compliance related to ski area operations and outdoor recreation activities.

Responsibilities

Defend ski resorts and related entities in civil litigation, including:

Personal injury and wrongful death claims
Premises liability and negligence actions
Claims involving skiing, snowboarding, lift operations, and mountain activities

Analyze and apply state ski safety statutes, assumption-of-risk doctrines, and liability limitations
Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, legal memoranda, and other legal documents
Represent clients in expert depositions as well as in mediations, arbitrations, and trials
Collaborate effectively with colleagues across departments and offices, contributing to a cohesive and supportive team environment
Independently manage a litigation caseload as part of a team, working cases from beginning to end
Communicate with clients and provide status reports
Stay current on developments in recreation law, tort law, and relevant regulations

Qualifications

JD from an accredited law school
Admitted to practice in California
8+ years of civil litigation defense, preferably in general liability, catastrophic injury, premises liability, personal injury defense, and/or insurance defense
Trial experience is required
Experience in litigating recreational accidents and working with liability waivers is helpful
Experience with ski resorts, mountain operations, outdoor recreation providers, or amusement operators is helpful
Superior analytical skills
Strong written and oral communication skills
Legal project management experience is helpful

A variety of factors are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, education, licensure and/or certifications, geographic location, market demands, other business and organizational needs, and other factors permitted by law. This position is also eligible for discretionary bonuses. Final salary wages offered may be outside of this range based on other reasons and individual circumstances. This position is considered full-time and therefore qualifies for benefits including 401(k) retirement savings plan, medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

Salary Range:

$200,000—$230,000 USD

Why Should You Apply?

Flexibility: Hybrid work arrangements to support work-life blend
Benefits: Outstanding benefits package, including 401k match and generous PTO plan
Career Growth: Ample opportunities for professional development and advancement
Employee Perks: Access to corporate discount plans and other benefits