Associate Attorney

Righi Fitch is an AV-rated insurance defense litigation firm with deep carrier relationships across Arizona and New Mexico that is looking to add a new Associate Attorney to our team. We have built our reputation on consistent excellence in defense work and on running a firm that actually supports the attorneys doing it. We pay for performance, and we invest in the technology and operational infrastructure that makes high performance possible. Responsibilities As an Associate Attorney at Righi Fitch, you will carry a full docket of insurance defense matters from intake through resolution. You will work directly with carrier clients, manage litigation guidelines and reporting requirements, and contribute to a team of attorneys who hold each other to high standards on billing, deadlines, and client service. This may include: Managing a docket of insurance defense matters — GL, auto, professional liability, premises, construction defect, and similar Conducting legal research; draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and correspondence Taking and defending depositions, including expert and critical witness depositions Attending hearings, mediations, and trials (second chair minimum; first chair as appropriate) Communicating proactively with carrier clients on case strategy, status, and budgets Complying with carrier litigation guidelines and billing protocols Managing experts: secure client approval, monitor budgets, ensure timely invoicing Mentoring junior associates and work collaboratively with paralegals and legal assistants Required Qualifications J.D. from an accredited law school Active bar license in Arizona and/or New Mexico 2–9 years of civil litigation experience, primarily insurance defense Trial or arbitration experience (second chair minimum) Experience with carrier clients and carrier litigation guidelines Strong written and oral advocacy skills Track record of clean, compliant billing practices Proficiency with legal research and case management platforms Preferred Qualifications Prior experience at or with an insurance carrier, in-house claims department, or carrier‑panel defense work Existing relationships within the AZ/NM/CO/UT carrier community Experience with carrier billing platforms and AI‑assisted timekeeping or drafting tools Location We have a preference for attorneys based in Arizona or New Mexico. Remote work is possible, but there are increasing requirements of courts with respect to in‑person appearances. Compensation At our 1,800‑hour annual billing expectation, an associate's target compensation is $125,000‑$145,000, but there is an opportunity to earn more for attorneys that wish to work more, as our compensation philosophy ties to each attorney's production. #J-18808-Ljbffr