Litigation Associate - Insurance Defense

SMITH FREED & EBERHARD PC • Portland, OR

3d

About The Position

Smith Freed Eberhard is seeking an experienced litigation associate to work directly with the Managing Partner on complex, high-exposure civil litigation, primarily in insurance defense. The role offers immediate involvement in litigation strategy, depositions, motion practice, witness preparation, mediations, arbitrations, trials, and client work. The attorney will manage litigation from inception through resolution and receive meaningful responsibility and mentorship while developing as a litigator.

The practice includes catastrophic injury claims, commercial transportation litigation, premises liability, products liability, dram shop liability, complex negligence actions, and other high-exposure civil litigation matters. The position is based in Portland, Oregon, with in-person work and hybrid arrangements considered. Compensation is competitive and based on experience, with performance bonus opportunities and a range of benefits and professional development support.

Requirements

• Active Oregon State Bar membership.
• At least 3 years of insurance defense litigation experience.
• Experience managing civil litigation files.
• Strong deposition, motion practice, and discovery skills.
• Courtroom experience, including hearings and arbitrations.
• Excellent writing and analytical abilities.
• A genuine desire to become an exceptional litigator.

Nice To Haves

• Washington Bar membership is a plus.
• Trial experience is valued but not required.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate directly with the Managing Partner on litigation strategy, client counseling, case evaluation, and resolution strategy.
• Take and defend depositions.
• Argue contested motions and participate in hearings.
• Develop litigation strategy and manage civil litigation from inception through resolution.
• Prepare witnesses and work directly with clients on significant cases.
• Attend and participate in arbitrations, mediations, and trials.
• Evaluate risk, negotiate effectively, communicate with clients, and make strategic decisions affecting case outcomes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Performance bonus opportunities.
• Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with employer contribution.
• Paid bar dues, CLEs, PLF, and professional memberships.
• Paid parental leave.
• Student debt assistance.
• Paid vacation and holidays.
• Parking or mass transit reimbursement.
• Voluntary short- or long-term disability, life, and pet insurance.
• Attorney retreats and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed