Litigation Associate-Defense

Title: Litigation Associate - Defense (General liability/Professional Liability)Required Bar Admissions: NJ and NYSalary: 130k-$170k/yrLocation: 100% REMOTEPosition OverviewWe are seeking a Litigation Associate to join our defense litigation team. The successful candidate will handle a diverse caseload of insurance defense, general liability, and professional liability matters, including malpractice claims. This role requires strong litigation skills, client-focused communication, and the ability to manage cases from intake through trial while collaborating with partners and insurers to achieve favorable outcomes.Key ResponsibilitiesManage a litigation caseload involving insurance defense, general liability, professional liability, and malpractice matters from intake through disposition.Draft and file pleadings, motions, briefs, and other court documents with clarity and adherence to procedural rules.Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda to support case strategy and motion practice.Handle discovery tasks including drafting and responding to interrogatories, requests for production, requests for admission, and preparing privilege logs.Prepare for and take or defend depositions; coordinate and prepare witnesses for testimony.Participate in client and insurer communications, providing clear status updates, legal advice, and strategy recommendations.Work with partners and senior attorneys to develop case strategy, settlement analyses, and trial preparation plans.Manage trial preparation tasks including exhibit organization, witness preparation, motion in limine filings, and trial notebooks.Negotiate settlements and attend mediations and alternative dispute resolution sessions as needed.Maintain accurate timekeeping and billing records; meet productivity and compliance expectations.QualificationsJuris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and admission to the state bar in good standing.3+ years of civil litigation experience, preferably with a focus on insurance defense, general liability, professional liability, and medical malpractice matters.Proven experience drafting pleadings, motions, and discovery, and conducting legal research and trial preparation.Strong oral advocacy and written communication skills; courtroom or deposition experience is preferred.Ability to manage a substantial caseload, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.Experience working with insurance carriers and understanding of coverage issues and claims handling processes preferred.Familiarity with e-filing systems, litigation support technology, and legal research platforms (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis).Demonstrated professionalism, sound judgment, and the ability to build and maintain client relationships.Willingness to travel for depositions, hearings, and trials as required.