Workers' Compensation Defense Associate Attorney

A law firm in Orange, CA, is seeking a skilled Workers' Compensation Defense Associate Attorney to join their team. The successful candidate will handle all aspects of defending workers' compensation claims for benefits, including medical, disability, impairment, and other defenses. This role involves managing litigation tasks such as discovery, depositions, trials, arbitrations, and settlement negotiations. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience in workers' compensation defense, strong litigation skills, and be in good standing with the California Bar Association.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Defend workers' compensation claims related to medical, disability, impairment, increased benefits under LC 132a, coverage, and employment defenses for clients including insurance companies, third-party administrators, and employer representatives.
• Handle all aspects of litigation, including discovery, depositions, trials, arbitrations, liens, and settlement negotiations and documents.
• Evaluate and prepare cases, including discovery and preparing for and attending hearings and depositions.
• Report on hearings, depositions, and appearances; prepare correspondence to clients regarding the status and updates of active claims.
• File pleadings in response to applicants’ claims and appear at the Workers' Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB).
• Perform legal research, analyze cases, and develop and recommend case strategy and plans of action.
• Write briefs and pleadings, negotiate settlements, and handle administrative duties related to the practice of law.

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in workers' compensation defense or related legal fields.
• Knowledge of workers' compensation law and the ability to spot legal issues in other areas.
• Excellent litigation, verbal, and writing skills.
• Ability to manage a caseload effectively with effective time management and good judgment.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop and recommend case strategy.
• Technologically adept and excellent organizational skills.
• Must be in good standing with the California Bar Association.
• Ability to handle administrative duties as they relate to the practice of law.

Education and Certifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Admission to the California State Bar.

Skills

• Proficiency in workers' compensation law and litigation procedures.
• Strong case evaluation, preparation, and management skills.
• Effective negotiation and settlement skills.
• Capable of performing legal research and analyzing cases.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
• Technologically proficient with legal practice management tools and software.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Medical, dental, and life insurance
  • Vacation and sick time off
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Medical flexible spending accounts
  • 401k plan

With a 25-year history, offices in 12 states, and approximately 100 attorneys, this firm have established itself as a strong provider of defense litigation services. Insurance carriers, third-party administrators, and self-insured employers trust these attorneys to represent their interests in workers compensation, general liability, employment discrimination, and other civil matters. With a professional, client-oriented culture, this firm provides an excellent platform.