Associate Attorney (Insurance Coverage)

Tyson & Mendes LLP•Seattle, WA

11d•$100,000 - $145,000•Hybrid

About The Position

This role offers a Washington attorney with 3-5 years of experience, particularly those with experience in UIM matters, first-party claims, or coverage issues, an opportunity to broaden their litigation practice while maintaining sophistication in insurance work. The Seattle office of Tyson & Mendes is described as busy, growing, and close-knit, providing the feel of a boutique practice with accessible leadership and collaboration, alongside the resources of a national litigation firm. The position is unique as it avoids a narrow practice lane, allowing work on diverse matters including insurance coverage, bad faith, claims management, general liability, auto liability, construction defect, and other complex insurance issues. The role involves approximately 10% first-party and coverage-related work, with the remainder in diverse tort litigation such as auto and UIM matters, premises liability, products liability, construction-related litigation, complex bodily injury claims, insurance coverage and first-party bad faith exposure, and high-value/unusual matters. The firm emphasizes learning from experienced partners, with opportunities for mentorship without micromanagement, and provides access to a national network, firmwide training, trial academy, advanced technology, and case-management tools. The ideal candidate will have a solid litigation foundation, approximately 3-5 years of Washington litigation experience, ideally with Washington UIM matters and exposure to first-party bad faith or insurance coverage. They should enjoy managing cases, solving complex legal issues, client communication, depositions, motion writing/arguing, and continuous development as a litigator. The firm seeks curious individuals eager to understand coverage intricacies, handle significant liability matters, and become trusted advisors for complex problems.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school
Active bar license in the state of Washington
3+ years of experience in insurance defense
3–5 years of litigation experience, including experience handling Washington UIM matters and exposure to first-party bad faith claims.
1–8 years of solid litigation experience, including case strategy, depositions, and trial preparation
Ability to independently manage a full caseload, from discovery through trial
Familiarity with litigation timekeeping and billing systems
Proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint
Self-motivated with strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication abilities
Professional appearance and demeanor

Nice To Haves

Experience with UIM matters
Experience with first-party claims
Experience with coverage issues

Responsibilities

Develop compelling case strategies that cut through emotional arguments and drive results
Set a higher standard—challenge mediocrity and push for excellence in every aspect of your work
Independently manage court appearances, depositions, motion practice, and trials
Collaborate seamlessly with attorneys and staff at all experience levels
Maintain consistent and professional communication with clients
Build and nurture relationships with existing and prospective clients
Mentor and provide guidance to junior attorneys, contributing to team growth and success

Benefits

Base salary ranging from $100,000-145,000 annually
Annual billable hours bonus ranging from $10,000 and then aggregating with $7,500 for every additional tier
Comprehensive benefits coverage offered, including plans available at zero employee cost (average annual employer contribution for health/vision/dental/life coverage is $700-$1,700)
401(k) program with a 100% match on the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4-5%
Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan (full-time attorneys after one year with the firm) $100-$200/month
Paid parental leave at base pay
Monthly technology reimbursement of $60
Employee Assistance Program through HealthAdvocate
Comprehensive in-house training and leadership development opportunities
Firm Provided CLE Programs and Paid Bar License Renewal Fees
Flexible vacation policy for attorneys
Defined pathway to partnership
Internal diversity and inclusion programs, such as the Women’s Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative
Firm-wide charitable giving program
Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues
Flexible Work Model: Remote, hybrid, or onsite options available