Claims Litigation Attorney

AAA • Los Angeles, CA

16d • $109,500 - $146,200

About The Position

The Claims Litigation Attorney provides legal representation to policyholders and the Exchange in legal proceedings, including trials and arbitrations. The role represents policyholders in the defense of personal injury and property damage lawsuits, and represents the Exchange in uninsured and underinsured motorist claims, medical payment reimbursement, small claims appeals, subrogation actions, and other legal actions. The position also conducts legal research and provides opinions to business units.

The attorney evaluates cases for liability and potential exposure, develops legal theories and strategies, and collaborates with Claims on defense strategy, discovery, motions, case valuation, negotiation, and settlement. The role prepares for and defends court proceedings, trials, mediations, and arbitrations, and regularly communicates case developments to management, policyholders, claims representatives, and other relevant parties. Guidance from Managing Attorneys is sought on complex issues and in preparation for trials or arbitrations.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD).
• 4–6 years of insurance defense law experience.
• Solid understanding of insurance contracts.
• Good grasp of trial procedures and rules of evidence.
• Valid driver’s license, acceptable Department of Motor Vehicles record, and minimum liability insurance issued by the state.

Nice To Haves

• Insurance defense experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Analyze cases, determine pertinent facts, develop legal theories and defense strategies, and identify potential exposure to policyholders or the Exchange.
• Develop and implement discovery plans and motions, including written discovery, subpoenas, records review, depositions, motion practice, expert retention and consultation, and witness statements.
• Prepare for, attend, and defend limited and unlimited jurisdiction court proceedings, including trials, as well as mediations and arbitrations.
• Research and prepare motion, trial, and appellate briefs; argue motions and appeals in lower appellate courts.
• Communicate case facts, liability and damages issues, legal defenses, strategy recommendations, discovery plans, valuations, and other pertinent information to management.
• Regularly communicate with policyholders and claims representatives about case development and provide written summaries of discovery, depositions, records, and significant developments.
• Participate in negotiating and settling cases on behalf of the Exchange or its policyholders with outside parties and entities.
• Assist with other attorneys’ files as needed and perform other assigned or required duties.
• Collaborate with Claims on legal strategy, case valuation, negotiation, and settlement, and seek Managing Attorney guidance on complex issues or trial and arbitration preparation.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) savings plan with company match and pension.
• Tuition assistance.
• Floating holidays and PTO for community volunteer programs.
• Paid parental leave.
• Wellness programs.
• Employee discounts on membership, insurance, travel, entertainment, services, and more.
• Incentive program eligibility for full-time positions based on organization, team, and personal performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree