Special Counsel

Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo LLP•Asheville, NC

13d•Hybrid

About The Position

Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo LLP is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Special Counsel attorney to join our growing Civil Litigation practice in Asheville, North Carolina. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned litigator to join an established and thriving practice, handle sophisticated litigation matters, and contribute to the continued growth of the firm's presence in Western North Carolina. The ideal candidate will be a North Carolina-licensed attorney with a strong background in civil litigation defense and a demonstrated ability to independently manage complex matters from inception through resolution. This role offers significant responsibility, direct client interaction, and the opportunity to work alongside experienced trial attorneys in a collaborative and supportive environment. As Special Counsel, you will be responsible for managing a diverse caseload of civil litigation matters through all phases of the litigation process. Responsibilities include case evaluation and strategy development, discovery, depositions, motion practice, mediation, arbitration, trial preparation, and trial. The successful candidate will serve as a trusted advisor to clients, develop practical and effective litigation strategies, and provide exceptional client service throughout the life of each matter. Candidates should have substantial experience defending civil litigation claims, with preference given to attorneys who have handled matters involving: Construction Litigation Trucking and Transportation Litigation Products Liability Professional Liability Motor Vehicle Negligence Premises Liability Commercial Litigation The ideal attorney will possess strong advocacy skills, superior legal writing abilities, and a proven track record of successfully handling complex litigation matters through trial and arbitration.

Requirements

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and an active license to practice law in the State of North Carolina.
Minimum of five (5) years of civil litigation experience, with a strong background in defending civil litigation claims.
Demonstrated experience handling matters through all phases of litigation, including case evaluation, discovery, depositions, motion practice, mediation, arbitration, and trial.
Proven trial and arbitration experience, with the ability to independently manage complex litigation matters from inception through resolution.
Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and advocacy skills, including the ability to draft persuasive motions, briefs, and case evaluations.
Excellent communication, client management, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to serve as a trusted advisor to clients and insurance professionals.
Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team-oriented litigation practice.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Open to North Carolina-licensed attorneys currently residing in Western North Carolina as well as candidates interested in relocating to the region.
Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work.

Nice To Haves

Experience in one or more of the following practice areas is strongly preferred: Construction Litigation, Trucking and Transportation Litigation, Products Liability, Professional Liability, Motor Vehicle Negligence, Premises Liability, Commercial Litigation
Interest in a flexible hybrid work arrangement, with Asheville serving as the attorney's home office.

Responsibilities

Independently manage a civil litigation caseload from inception through resolution.
Develop and implement effective case strategies tailored to client objectives.
Conduct and defend depositions of parties, fact witnesses, experts, and corporate representatives.
Draft and argue motions, briefs, and other substantive legal filings.
Represent clients at mediations, arbitrations, hearings, and trials.
Conduct legal research and analysis to support litigation strategies and client recommendations.
Communicate regularly with clients regarding case developments, risk assessments, and resolution strategies.
Collaborate with attorneys across practice groups on complex litigation matters.
Mentor and support junior attorneys and contribute to the continued growth of the practice.