Litigation Associate - Insurance Defense
About The Position
Smith Freed Eberhard is seeking an experienced litigation associate to work directly with the Managing Partner on complex, high-exposure insurance defense and civil litigation. The position offers early involvement in litigation strategy and opportunities to take and defend depositions, argue motions, prepare witnesses, participate in mediations and trials, and work directly with clients on significant cases. The associate may manage litigation from inception through resolution and attend arbitrations and mediations. Opportunities and responsibility are based on ability and experience, with mentorship and professional development intended to support growth 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. Smith Freed Eberhard is an equal employment opportunity employer that encourages diversity in the workplace.
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 files from inception through resolution.
- Prepare witnesses and work directly with clients on significant cases.
- Participate in mediations, arbitrations, 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.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
