Senior Counsel (Remote or Hybrid)

Tyson & Mendes•Jacksonville, FL

About The Position

Tyson & Mendes is seeking an experienced Florida defense attorney to join a busy litigation team handling sophisticated, high-exposure matters throughout Central Florida. The role may be remote, hybrid, or onsite, with Orlando described as an especially attractive location. The team is connected to the Jacksonville office, and the position offers the opportunity to build the firm’s Central Florida presence without an expectation of constant travel. The attorney will handle varied, complex litigation, including trucking and motor vehicle matters, premises liability, surgical and medical-related cases, and other complex liability matters. The role offers meaningful case ownership and close collaboration with trial attorneys Holly Howanitz and Stefani Cogsdale, including exposure to case strategy, motion practice, discovery, depositions, trial preparation, and trials. The attorney will be trusted to work independently while receiving mentorship, feedback, and opportunities to take on greater responsibility. The position is suited to a strong legal writer and thoughtful strategist who takes ownership of work, is coachable, and wants to continue developing as a litigator. The firm describes itself as a fast-growing national civil defense firm that provides attorneys with resources, technology, training, professional development, leadership opportunities, and paths to partnership.

Requirements

Juris Doctor from an ABA-approved school.
Active Florida Bar license; the posting also states that candidates must be licensed in their state.
At least 8 years of solid litigation experience, including litigation support, deposition, and trial preparation.
Ability to manage full case-handling responsibilities, including all facets of discovery and trial.
Substantive experience in discovery and motion practice.
Ability to think and act independently and with minimal supervision.
Experience with time-management systems.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, specifically Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Outstanding listening, verbal, and written communication skills.
Professional appearance and demeanor.
Strong legal writing, attention to detail, and willingness to accept feedback.

Nice To Haves

Insurance defense experience is preferred; the position description also identifies insurance defense as part of the ideal candidate’s litigation background.
Trial experience is highly valued.
Law Review or another demonstrated record of exceptional legal research and writing is particularly attractive.
Interest in gaining courtroom experience and continuing to develop as a trial lawyer.

Responsibilities

Develop a case theme that is more compelling than plaintiff arguments for sympathy or anger.
Independently handle court appearances, depositions, briefs, and trials.
Manage cases through all facets of discovery and trial.
Conduct substantive motion practice, discovery, depositions, and trial preparation.
Communicate routinely with clients.
Cultivate relationships with existing and future firm clients.
Work collaboratively with colleagues at all experience levels.
Provide leadership and direction to less experienced attorneys.
Take ownership of assigned cases and move assignments forward independently.
Work closely with trial attorneys on case strategy and litigation matters.

Benefits

Base salary of $150,000–$190,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
Annual billable-hours bonus starting at $10,000, with an additional $7,500 for each subsequent tier.
Comprehensive benefits coverage, including plans available at zero employee cost; the stated average annual employer contribution for health, vision, dental, and life coverage is $700–$1,700.
401(k) with a 100% match on the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4–5%.
Student loan repayment assistance or a 529 college savings plan for full-time attorneys after one year with the firm.
Paid parental leave at base pay.
Monthly technology reimbursement of $60.
Employee Assistance Program through HealthAdvocate.
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, including the Women’s Initiative and Young Professionals Initiative.
Firm-wide charitable giving program.
Social and off-site events throughout the year.
Remote, hybrid, or onsite work options.