Job Title: Associate Attorney – Insurance Defense

Location: Los Angeles, CA 

Job Type: Full-Time (hybrid)

About the Company

Founded in 1991, this California law firm represents clients statewide in litigation, appeals, and complex legal matters. The firm’s practice areas include business litigation, employment litigation, environmental law and toxic torts, insurance coverage and defense, medical and dental malpractice, plaintiff's personal injury, premises liability, product liability, workers’ compensation, and more. With seasoned trial attorneys and a collaborative team approach, the firm delivers strategic, cost-effective solutions—resolving cases early when possible and defending vigorously at trial or on appeal.

Position Overview

We are seeking an Associate Attorney with experience in insurance defense litigation to join our legal team. The ideal candidate will have strong litigation skills, a solid understanding of California civil procedure, and the ability to manage cases independently from inception through resolution.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle a full caseload of insurance defense matters, including personal injury, premises liability, and product liability cases

• Draft and argue motions, including dispositive motions

• Take and defend depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts

• Attend court appearances, mediations, and arbitrations

• Conduct legal research and prepare case analyses and recommendations for clients

• Communicate directly with clients, insurance carriers, and opposing counsel

• Develop case strategies and manage cases from inception through trial or settlement

• Collaborate with other attorneys and staff to ensure timely and effective case handling

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

• Active membership in the State Bar of California in good standing

• Experience in insurance defense litigation

• Trial and deposition experience preferred

• Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills

• Strong negotiation and communication skills

• Ability to manage multiple cases and meet deadlines

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal case management software

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $100,000 – $175,000 annually (based on skills, experience, and qualifications; may be higher for exceptional candidates)

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) plan

• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays

EEO Statement:The firm is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Disclaimer:This job description provides only a summary of the typical functions associated with this role and is not intended to represent an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all responsibilities, tasks, or duties. The actual responsibilities, tasks, and duties assigned may differ from those outlined, and additional duties may be assigned. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice. SmartHire is not legally responsible for any changes to the jobholder’s responsibilities or activities implemented by our clients that differ from those described herein.

SmartHire is posting this position on behalf of our client, and the salary range provided is determined by the client. Actual compensation offered will depend on various factors determined by the hiring company, including candidate qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and internal equity considerations. SmartHire is not legally responsible for any changes in salary, benefits, or bonuses made by our clients.