Senior Claims Legal Counsel

IAT Insurance Group has an immediate opening for a Senior Claims Legal Counsel in the Legal Department that can be in Alpharetta, Georgia; Raleigh, North Carolina; Scottsdale, Arizona; or Virginia Beach, Virginia. The role will support both the Property and Casualty Claims Department in the handling of extra-contractual litigation against the company arising from first-party property and third-party liability claims.  Specifically, this role is a complex claims and litigation handling role that is tasked with managing litigation that has significant financial exposure under our commercial and homeowner’s property policies, commercial transportation policies, and general liability policies. The role will also be tasked with providing insurance coverage opinions and policy recommendations for Claims and Underwriting.  The ideal candidate for this role will be an experienced coverage attorney or claims professional with a Juris Doctorate degree and extensive experience handling first-party and third-party claims and litigation on a nationwide basis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as in-house counsel responsible for responding to Legal Matters for Property and Casualty Claims.
• Works with IAT’s Legal Department to develop companywide coverage positions and litigation and resolution strategy for extra-contractual suits filed against the company.
• Directs and manages assigned caseload of litigated files involving extra-contractual lawsuits and declaratory judgment actions.
• Analyzes and provides formal opinions on coverage and legal issues for multiple product lines, including Property, Casualty and Specialty Claims.
• Assigns outside counsel to represent the company in claims-related litigation in compliance with company guidelines.
• Oversees and directs outside counsel retained to represent the company.
• Prepares written coverage determinations, including reservation of rights letters and denial of coverage letters for claims involving complex or novel coverage issues.
• Acts as an internal in-house legal resource for claims department.
• Negotiates and authorizes appropriate settlements within designated authority in extra-contractual lawsuits filed against the company.
• Prepares case summary reports for review with management.
• Attends mediations, settlement conferences, court hearings and trials.
• Conducts legal research regarding emerging and novel insurance-related statutes, laws, and appellate decisions impacting companywide claims and underwriting business units.
• Handles and responds to Claims Legal Referrals submitted by companywide claims organization.
• Oversees, tracks, and offers guidance to Claims regarding extra-contractual litigation against the company..
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor from an accredited law school.
• At least 5 years of related experience as in-house counsel or in private legal practice.
• Must Have State Bar License that is in good standing.
• Must have experience working with insurance industry.

• Must have insurance coverage experience.
• Coverage experience related to 1st party, 3rd party Auto/ Bodily Injury and homeowners property preferred.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, in a collaborative manner, and as part of team.
• Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines.
• To qualify, all applicants must be authorized to work in the United States and must not require, now or in the future, VISA sponsorship for employment purposes.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. We maintain a drug-free workplace and participate in E-Verify.

To view details of our full benefits, please visit https://www.iatinsurancegroup.com/careers/benefits

IAT Insurance Group is the largest private, family-owned property and casualty insurer in the U.S. Insurance Answers Together® is how we define IAT, in letter and in spirit. We work together to provide solutions for people and businesses. We collaborate internally and with our partners to provide the best possible insurance and surety options for our customers.

At IAT, we’re committed to driving and building an open and supportive culture for all. Our employees propel IAT forward – driving innovation, stable partnerships and growth. That’s why we continue to build an engaging workplace culture to attract and retain the best talent.

We offer comprehensive benefits like:

• 26 PTO Days (Entry Level) + 12 Company Holidays = 38 Paid Days Off
• 7% 401(k) Company Match and additional Profit Sharing
• Hybrid work environment
• Numerous training and development opportunities to assist you in furthering your career
• Healthcare and Wellness Programs
• Opportunity to earn performance-based bonuses
• College Loan Assistance Support Plan
• Educational Assistance Program
• Mentorship Program
• Dress for Your Day Policy

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.  We maintain a drug-free workplace and participate in E-Verify.