Associate Attorney

Tyson & Mendes LLP•Seattle, WA

4d•$100,000 - $145,000•Hybrid

About The Position

This role is for an Associate Attorney (Insurance Coverage) with 3-5 years of experience in Washington. It offers a unique opportunity to build a broader litigation practice while focusing on insurance work. The Seattle office is described as busy, growing, and close-knit, providing the feel of a boutique practice with the resources of a national firm. The position is distinct because it avoids a narrow practice lane, allowing work across various complex insurance matters alongside an experienced partner. The role involves approximately 10% first-party and coverage-related work, with the remainder in diverse tort litigation including 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, developing judgment, managing cases, and taking ownership of one's practice, described as mentorship without micromanagement. The Seattle office offers a national network of litigators, firmwide training, a Trial Academy, advanced technology, and sophisticated case-management tools. The ideal candidate will have a solid litigation foundation, be ready for variety and growth, enjoy managing cases, and be curious about insurance coverage.

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

Worked with UIM matters
Worked with first-party claims
Worked 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 that includes 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