Claims Staff Counsel

Bluefire Insurance Services, Inc.•Austin, TX

About The Position

Responsible for providing legal counseling on cases including representation in litigation to the company and/or company's insured persons. Performs regular contact with Staff Counsel, Management, Litigation Specialist, Insured Persons, and Legal Community.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate Degree required
Valid law license in applicable states
3+ years' litigation experience; civil insurance defense strongly preferred
Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, technical journals/procedures, and financial reports and data.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedures
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from management, employees, clients, customers, and the general public
Excellent verbal communication skills
Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills
Working knowledge of Civil Procedure and Tort Law for State(s) licensed
Ability to maintain the highest level of discretion, diplomacy and confidentiality
High-energy level, comfortable performing multifaceted projects in conjunction with day-to-day activities
Ability to work independently, think creatively and exercise strong, sound judgment
Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written
Ability to get along with diverse personalities, tactful, flexible.
Strong orientation to customer service
Ability to prioritize activities and projects.
Skilled at time management and attention to administrative detail
Strong technical aptitude in regards to software applications such as the Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to process high volumes of work, while meeting deadlines

Responsibilities

Handles complex files/cases as assigned including initial in-take of file, conducting initial client interview and reviewing existing information summations, reports, and statements
Maintains updated records on insured persons, including contact information
Reviews status of service upon confirmation of service prepared and file appearance, jury demand, and appropriate responsive pleading
Reviews and proofreads all documents including correspondence, pleadings, discovery and/or motions that go out in your name
Files all court documents with the clerk of that court
Prepares and propounds discovery on opposing party
With the assistance of the insured persons, prepares written answers production request and interrogations served on the insured persons by opposing counsel; also reviews answer to discovery on opposing party
Take depositions: includes taking the sworn testimony of plaintiffs and other witnesses including expert/opinion witnesses. Defends the insured persons at depositions, interposing objections when appropriate
Prepares and files appropriate motions during litigation including motions to compel and to bar (in limine)
Responds to Plaintiff's motions regarding all aspects of the litigation suit
Handles all court calls for the assigned cases including all status hearings, case management hearings, pre-trial conferences and trials
Handles trials for assigned cases including open argument, examinations of witness, legal trial motions, jury instruction, and closing arguments
Handles arbitration hearings including opening argument, direct and cross examinations of witnesses, legal technical motions, and closing arguments
Responds to subpoenas issued on the company
Performs miscellaneous research projects as assigned by the company
Handles complex and high exposures cases