Senior Defense Litigation Associate - General Liability

A law firm seeks an experienced and highly motivated Senior Defense Litigation Associate to join its General Liability team. This role will focus on defending clients in a variety of industries, including healthcare, senior living, and manufacturing, against general and premises liability claims. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in both general and product liability defense, strong courtroom skills, and the ability to manage complex litigation matters in both state and federal courts. This position offers the opportunity to work with a dynamic team, collaborate on high-profile cases, and contribute to the firm's continued success.

Duties:

• Lead and manage all aspects of defense litigation, including taking and defending depositions.
• Conduct thorough legal research on diverse medical, scientific, and legal issues, working closely with senior attorneys to craft effective strategies.
• Draft complex legal documents, including memoranda, motions (e.g., summary judgment), pleadings, and discovery requests.
• Prepare detailed reports for clients, including deposition summaries, medical record analyses, case evaluations, and status updates.
• Work with expert witnesses to develop case strategies and trial preparation.
• Participate in trial preparation, mediation, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) processes.
• Represent clients in court hearings, including arguing motions and attending discovery conferences.
• Maintain a minimum of 1,900 billable hours annually.

Requirements:

• 6 to 10+ years of experience in general/premises liability and/or product liability matters, with a proven track record of first-chair deposition and courtroom experience.
• Admission to the New York State Bar; admission to the New Jersey Bar is a plus.
• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school and active membership in good standing with the New York Bar.
• Familiarity and experience with New York Courts and local procedures.
• Strong research, writing, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple competing deadlines.
• A proactive, innovative mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• High level of professionalism, with a positive and flexible attitude.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse personalities at all levels within the organization.
• Well-developed client relations skills and the ability to manage client expectations.
• Military experience is welcome but not required.

Education:

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

Certifications:

• Active membership in good standing with the New York State Bar (and New Jersey Bar, if applicable).

Skills:

• Strong legal research and writing skills.
• Ability to effectively manage complex cases and legal challenges.
• Excellent oral communication skills, with a focus on courtroom presence.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate within a team and with clients.
• Professional, flexible, and adaptable attitude toward work and client needs.
• Client-focused with a strong sense of responsibility and dedication to high standards of performance.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance packages.
• Paid time off (PTO), including holidays and parental leave.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Opportunities for ongoing professional development and career growth.
• Hybrid work flexibility for better work-life balance.
• A commitment to diversity and inclusion within the workplace.

Known as one of the leading 250 law firms in the country, this time-honored law firm was established more than 150 years ago. It firmly believes in diversity at the workplace and encourages pro bono and community outreach programs. The firm has fourteen offices all over New York and the surrounding regions. It concentrates on varied and proven practice areas in a multitude of industries. The firm has received numerous industry honors for its outstanding legal service.