In-House Counsel

Job Title: In-House Corporate Counsel
Location: On-Site | La Jolla, CA
Schedule: Full-Time | Monday–Friday

Join a Legacy of Generational Real Estate Excellence
Gaines Investment Trust is a family-owned, vertically integrated real estate investment company with 59 years of success. We own and manage a diverse, generational real estate portfolio across 10 states, including more than 8,000 apartment homes, office buildings, industrial properties, land holdings, and timberland. We manage our assets exclusively for ourselves and do not provide third-party management services to others, allowing us to maintain the highest standards and long-term focus.

What We’re Looking For
We’re hiring a sharp, business-savvy In-House Corporate Counsel to join our team in La Jolla. This person will serve as a trusted legal advisor across all areas of our business.
We’re looking for someone who brings not only legal expertise but also common sense and a strong appreciation for value for the money—a practical thinker who knows how to balance risk, cost, and reward.

What You’ll Do

• Provide legal guidance across operations, compliance, insurance, contracts, and litigation
• Draft, review, and negotiate a range of contracts (vendor, construction, technology, services)
• Manage legal matters related to tenants, vendors, and insurance claims
• Support real estate holdings across all asset types—multifamily, office, industrial, land, and timber
• Advise on NNN leases, easement agreements, and development-related legal matters
• Counsel on employment-related legal issues and workers’ compensation
• Ensure corporate and regulatory compliance in all jurisdictions
• Collaborate with and manage outside counsel when needed

What You Bring

• J.D. from an accredited U.S. law school
• Active member of the California Bar (additional bar admissions a plus)
• 4–8 years of legal experience, ideally in-house within a real estate ownership or investment company
• Proficiency in contracts, real estate, construction, employment law, and litigation
• Strong business judgment and a cost-conscious mindset
• Ability to communicate clearly and navigate complex issues pragmatically
• Must reside in or near San Diego, CA

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Full medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Optional life, accident, and critical illness insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid vacation and holidays
• A stable, disciplined company culture rooted in trust, integrity, and long-term ownership