Litigation Attorney

1. SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for legal defense preparation and presentation of workers’ compensation claims before the California Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board.  Responsible for protecting the company’s claims department legal interest within the scope established by law.

 II.                ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following: 

Denotes "essential functions" in accordance with the guidelines of The Americans with Disabilities Act.  The essential functions of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to, those specifically identified in this description.  The position and its essential functions may change over time and these changes may not necessarily be reflected in the position description.  The Company may, at its sole discretion, add to, change, or expand the essential or marginal functions of the position.

• Legal case preparation and reporting:
  • o   Responsible for identifying and analyzing legal issues, drafting key documents, presenting clear recommendations, and assuring legal compliance.
  • o   In conjunction with claims department case manager prepare workers' compensation cases for trial, conferences and/or depositions.
  • o   Determine the nature of evidence to be produced at hearings and/or depositions and direct its procurement.
  • o   Examine lay and medical witnesses, and argue factual and legal issues.
  • o   Drafts pleadings, motions, correspondence and other related legal documentation.
  • Prepare reports of proceedings, and/or depositions and prepare such briefs or memoranda of law as appropriate.
  • Provide regular status report updates to claims staff.

• • • Represent the company in court proceedings
    • • Prepare, attend, and report on court hearings
      • Effectively navigate the legal system processes, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements
      • Provide legal guidance and support to claims department staff
      • Interact with the case managers to provide legal guidance and to coordinate and assist in the timely and efficient resolution of claims and claims’ issues.
      • Review files and complies with motions and legal actions to be filed. Direct cases toward resolution/disposition.
      • Successfully complete the annual corporate Code of Conduct Training.  Demonstrate full knowledge, understanding and compliance with the Code.  (Note: As a subsidiary company of Alleghany Corporation we adhere to the Alleghany Corporate Code of Business Conduct and Ethics).

 III.             SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES.  

 None

 IV.             REQUIRED/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required:

• • • Demonstrated legal skills and ability to handle all phases of litigation to ensure zealous and ethical representation of the best interests of the client.
    • Strong organizational skills and the ability to provide timely reports to claims and insureds.
    • Computer skills and knowledge of relevant software.
    • Proven excellence in written and verbal communication skills.  Ability to effectively communicate across the organization and legal system including communications with outside attorneys and court personnel.
    • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

• Graduate of an accredited law school.  Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) or Juris Doctor (JD) required.
• Active member in good standing of the California State Bar.
• Certified Workers’ Compensation Legal Specialist a plus.
• 5+ years experience in the workers’ compensation field preferred.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, stoop, sit for extended periods of time, manage concurrent deadlines and multiple priorities, have effective verbal and written communication skills, use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms, lift (10-35lbs) and talk or hear.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus and input data on PC for extended periods of time.   Travel is required and must be willing to travel to meet company objectives.  Individual must be mobile and able to drive, have a valid California driver’s license, auto insurance and satisfactory DMV record.