Insurance Defense Litigation Associate

Job Overview

A law firm seeks an Associate Attorney to join its team in the St. Louis office. This position involves managing a diverse caseload for local and national clients, with a focus on insurance defense litigation. The firm handles matters related to toxic torts, complex product liability, general liability, and professional liability. The ideal candidate will have experience in litigation and a strong ability to manage cases independently, demonstrate excellent legal writing, and exhibit professionalism in depositions and court hearings across multiple jurisdictions.

Duties

• Independently manage a litigation caseload and ensure effective case progression.
• Analyze and draft discovery requests, including interrogatories, requests for production, and admissions.
• Conduct depositions of plaintiffs, defendants, and expert witnesses.
• Prepare and argue motions, including dispositive motions and motions in limine.
• Provide trial preparation and support, including witness preparation and evidence organization.
• Attend court hearings and trials, ensuring representation of client interests.
• Investigate facts and gather evidence to support case theories.
• Maintain accurate and timely time records for billable hours.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• 1-5 years of litigation experience, preferably in insurance defense or related fields.
• Admission to the Illinois State Bar is required; secondary bar admissions in Missouri, Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin, Texas, Washington, Oregon, or California are preferred.
• Experience with motion practice and deposition preparation.
• Lead experience in plaintiff and expert depositions is highly desirable.
• Ability to handle cases independently and work efficiently under pressure.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

Certifications

• Active membership in the Illinois State Bar is required.
• Secondary bar admissions in Missouri, Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin, Texas, Washington, Oregon, or California are preferred.

Skills

• Exceptional legal writing and research abilities.
• Strong litigation and case management skills.
• Proficiency in preparing and arguing motions in court.
• Ability to take depositions and prepare clients and witnesses for court.
• Highly organized with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical insurance plans (PPO, PPO HSA, HMO) are provided by BCBSIL.
• Dental insurance (PPO and HMO) provided by Guardian.
• Vision insurance (PPO) is provided by EyeMed.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Paid time off (PTO) and parental leave.
• Commuter benefits.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Accidental death coverage and additional leave programs.

The law firm focuses its practice on defending product manufacturers, premises owners, distributors, and contractors in all aspects of civil litigation, including product liability and toxic tort claims. The firm has offices in Chicago and Edwardsville, Illinois; St. Louis, Missouri; and Dallas, Texas.