Claims Staff Counsel

Purpose

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

Essential Duties & 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

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Juris Doctorate Degree required

Valid law license in applicable states

3+ years' litigation experience; civil insurance defense strongly preferred

Preferred Skills

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

Other Duties

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.