Associate Attorney needed for Lafayette office

A law firm in Lafayette, LA, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Associate Attorney to join their team. The ideal candidate will have strong time management skills, independent judgment, and a background in litigation. This role requires managing client cases efficiently, providing legal counsel, and ensuring all matters are handled promptly and accurately from sign-up through disbursal.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage and update clients on the status of their cases.
• Meet with clients as requested to discuss case details and provide updates.
• Contact third parties such as insurance adjusters and opposing counsel to negotiate settlements and resolve issues.
• Ensure that all assigned matters are handled promptly, accurately, and thoughtfully from sign-up through disbursal.
• Follow the Matter Plan for each assigned matter, completing each task timely, accurately, and thoroughly.
• Review and approve email correspondence and supporting documents as required.
• Review and approve pleadings for filing.
• Review and approve all written discovery documents.
• Conduct depositions and attend court hearings as necessary.
• Assist with trial preparation, including gathering evidence and preparing witnesses.
• Review and approve medical treatment and expenses for clients up to the set limits for further review.
• Review and approve client disbursals.
• Provide guidance and answer case-handling questions from paralegals in a timely manner.
• Strive to achieve the best possible settlement or verdict for clients.
• Attend mediations on behalf of clients to negotiate settlements.
• Maximize all settlement and verdict amounts through thorough preparation and negotiation.
• Conduct in-depth reviews of quantum and medical records, bills, and history.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of Louisiana law and a willingness to learn firm systems and processes.

Requirements

• Must have a strong working knowledge of Louisiana law and a willingness to learn the firm's systems and processes.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Strong time management skills and the ability to exercise independent judgment.
• Ability to manage and update clients on their cases effectively.
• Commitment to providing the highest level of client service.
• Minimum of 5-10 years of litigation experience preferred.
• Licensed and in good standing to practice law in the state of Louisiana.
• Admission to all federal and state courts in Louisiana.

Education

• College degree.
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Licensed to practice law in Louisiana.
• Admission to all federal and state courts in Louisiana.

Skills

• Expertise in litigation and personal injury law.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in legal research and document preparation.
• Ability to handle complex legal issues and provide strategic legal counsel.
• Strong negotiation and settlement skills.
• Excellent client communication and relationship management skills.
• Analytical and strategic thinking.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• High ethical standards and professional integrity.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development and continuing legal education opportunities.