Associate Coverage and Liability (Defense)

Description

SUMMARY: The associate attorney represents the interest of the client of the firm under the general supervision of a partner. Representation of clients may involve representing an employer and/or insurer, in evaluating and advising the client on workers’ compensation claims as well as representation in litigation by appearing at hearings, trials, depositions, oral arguments, mediations, arbitrations and other proceedings, and also includes communication with client representatives and claims representatives, creating and submitting reports required by the client, motions and briefs required to support the position of the client and negotiation of settlements on behalf of the client.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Investigate workers’ compensation claims
• Gather medical evidence and records
• Take and/or defend depositions of the claimant, witnesses, physicians, medical experts and other parties
• Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, opinions and other legal documents
• Perform necessary legal research using all available resources including libraries and computer data systems
• Formulate legal strategies to resolve cases favorably and cost-effectively
• Communicate regularly with clients explaining legal options and the status of the matter
• Develop arguments and represent clients in legal proceedings
• Effectively conducts negotiations, when appropriate, to resolve matters on behalf of the client
• Litigate cases before a judge or referee
• Maintain membership in the state bar and complete all required Continuing Legal Education requirements on an annual basis
• Follow the ethical requirements as set forth by the Rules of Professional Conduct of the state and complies with all requirements of the firm’s professional liability insurance carrier
• Regular and predictable attendance

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Juris Doctor degree from an American Bar Association accredited law school; admission to the bar of the state in which practicing and in good standing with the bar association
• Effective supervisory and leadership, organizational and critical thinking, judgment and decision-making ability
• Interpersonal skills necessary in order to communicate with a diverse group of clients, attorneys and staff
• Ability to demonstrate impeccable integrity in confidential matters.
• PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
• The physical demands of an associate attorney here are representative to successfully perform the essential functions of the position
• The position frequently requires more than 40 hours per week
• A stationary position for extended periods of time, reading, telephone contact, computer keyboarding requiring continuous use of the hands, occasionally move about the office to access files, bending, stooping, and lifting of light to moderate weight is required
• Ability to manage stressful situations
• Work may also require travel to other firm offices and offsite locations, therefore work requires driving

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Moderate noise to include computers, telephone, copy machines and printers
• Ability to work in a confined area, office
• Ability to sit at a computer terminal for extended periods of time

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements.