The Walt Disney Company

Assistant Chief Counsel, Litigation

The Walt Disney Company$236K — $316K *
Legal & Accounting
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 10+ years of litigation experience at a major law firm and/or in-house legal department
  • Experience managing complex cases in U.S. federal and state courts, particularly patent cases
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent judgment
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate risk and make sound legal decisions
  • Collaborative approach with strong interpersonal skills to work across levels
  • Strong advocacy skills to articulate complex issues to senior executives
  • Experience supervising attorneys and paralegals
  • Business acumen with a capacity for innovative legal solutions in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute comprehensive litigation strategies including case evaluation and budgeting
  • Lead and manage litigation matters across various jurisdictions from assessment through trial and appeal
  • Supervise outside counsel both in the U.S. and internationally, including key territories like Germany and Brazil
  • Advise stakeholders on litigation risks and implications for business decisions
  • Make risk-based decisions and escalate issues to senior leadership as necessary
  • Anticipate potential legal challenges and create proactive solutions to mitigate risks
  • Educate senior leadership on litigation trends and strategies

Benefits

  • Medical, financial, and other comprehensive benefits
  • Bonus and/or long-term incentive units included in compensation package
  • Opportunity to work in a collaborative environment with diverse legal challenges
  • Engagement with senior leadership and stakeholders
  • Professional growth opportunities in a dynamic industry
Full Job Description
Job Posting Title:
Assistant Chief Counsel, Litigation

Req ID:


Job Description:

We are seeking an Assistant Chief Counsel to join the Corporate Legal - Litigation group. This attorney will play a central role in managing the Company's general litigation docket, with an emphasis on patent disputes, FRAND licensing claims and disputes, and cross-border enforcement actions.

Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute litigation strategy, including case evaluation, budgeting, and motion practice oversight
  • Lead litigation matters across U.S. federal and state courts and international jurisdictions, from pre-suit assessment through trial and appeal
  • Supervise outside counsel, both domestically and internationally (including Germany, Brazil, and the Unified Patent Court)
  • Advise business and technology stakeholders on litigation risk and the implications of product and platform decisions
  • Make strategic risk-based decisions and escalate to senior legal and business leadership as necessary
  • Anticipate issues and proactively develop creative business-oriented and brand-consistent solutions to mitigate legal risks
  • Provide internal education on litigation trends, SEP developments, and risk mitigation strategies to senior leadership
  • Collaborate with patent prosecution, antitrust counsel, and outside advisors on patent validity challenges, IPR/EPR proceedings, and related administrative proceedings


Minimum Qualifications
  • 10+ years of litigation experience at a major law firm and/or in-house legal department
  • Substantial experience managing complex cases in U.S. federal and state courts, including patent infringement cases
  • Excellent attention to detail, written and verbal communication skills, and judgment
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate risk and exercise sound legal judgment
  • Strong work ethic and commitment to professionalism and integrity
  • Collaborative, solutions-oriented approach with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues at all levels of the organization
  • Excellent written and oral advocacy skills, with the ability to communicate complex patent and technology issues to senior executives and non-technical audiences
  • Self-motivated with the initiative and drive to manage complex matters independently and proactively anticipate business and legal needs
  • Experience supervising attorneys and paralegals
  • Exceptional business acumen and ability to develop creative, business-oriented solutions to complex legal problems in a fast-paced, consumer-facing environment


Required Education
  • Law degree from an accredited law school
  • Admission to the California State Bar in good standing or willingness and qualification to be Registered In-House Counsel in California


The hiring range for this position in Burbank, CA is $236,000 to $316,500 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:
Corporate Legal Group

Job Posting Primary Business:
Litigation and Patents

Primary Job Posting Category:
Attorney

Employment Type:
Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Burbank, CA, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:
2026-08-27

About The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company started as a cartoon studio and evolves into sports coverage and television shows. Using the company's portfolio of brands to differentiate our content, services, and consumer products, Walt Disney seeks to develop creative, innovative, and profitable entertainment experiences and related products.

The Walt Disney Company Careers

Join the magical world of The Walt Disney Company, a place where dreams come true and imagination meets innovation. As a global leader in entertainment and media, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that invite you to be part of a beloved brand known for its influential culture, diversity, and dynamic growth. Work You’ll Do Embark on a career journey with The Walt Disney Company and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of media and entertainment. Engage in work that matters, contributes to storytelling excellence, and brings joy to millions around the globe. Transform your professional life by joining a team that values creativity, leadership, and visionary thinking. The Walt Disney Company stands at the forefront of industry innovation, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in entertainment and beyond. Lead with us from a unique position in the marketplace, where your skills in technology, creativity, and management converge to create extraordinary experiences. Collaborate with a diverse group of talented professionals, united in their passion for delivering magical experiences. Our team at The Walt Disney Company is composed of over 200,000 dedicated individuals who thrive in an environment that fosters growth, mentorship, and innovation. Introducing The Walt Disney Company Leadership and Professional Growth Programs We are committed to developing leaders who can navigate the challenges of the digital era and drive success across our various business segments. Our leadership programs are designed to hone your skills and prepare you for executive roles within the company. Do Innovative Work Join our team and contribute to projects that redefine the entertainment landscape. From groundbreaking films and television series to pioneering technological advancements, your work at The Walt Disney Company will set new standards in the creative and business worlds. Be Part of a Great Team Experience a culture that is inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking. Work alongside the best in the business and see how diversity and inclusion fuel our creativity and success. The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to a diverse workforce is evident in our hiring practices, training programs, and our everyday operations. Future-Proof Your Career With a wide array of benefits, continuous learning opportunities, and a network of supportive colleagues, your career at The Walt Disney Company is equipped for longevity and success. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health care, employee discounts, and access to exclusive company events and previews. Explore Job Opportunities and Internships Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for your next challenge or a student seeking a transformative internship, The Walt Disney Company offers positions across a spectrum of fields and disciplines. Explore our career portal to find job opportunities that match your skills and passions. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions, apply through our streamlined application process, and take the first step towards a magical career. We look for individuals who are passionate, curious, and eager to contribute to our legacy of storytelling and innovation. Keep Up to Date Stay informed with the latest company news, career tips, and insider perspectives—all from the people who make The Walt Disney Company a place of inspiration and excitement. Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts and updates that align with your career interests. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at The Walt Disney Company. Join us, and be part of the magic that only happens here at The Walt Disney Company!
Learn more about The Walt Disney Company
Size
190,000 employees
Market Cap
$155.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$4.9 billion
Founded
1923
5 Year Trend
+3.9%
Revenue
$60.7 billion
NASDAQ

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