Managing Attorney

Managing Attorney – Staff Counsel About Southlake Insurance Southlake Insurance brings together several AM Best rated, technology- and data‑driven insurance companies specializing in specialty program business and fronting within the Property and Casualty sector. Position Overview The Managing Attorney – Staff Counsel oversees an in‑house litigation team responsible for defending insureds in civil lawsuits covered by the company’s insurance policies. The role involves managing attorneys, paralegals, and legal assistants while maintaining a complex caseload and ensuring high‑quality, cost‑effective representation that meets company guidelines and applicable law. Key Responsibilities Direct, mentor, and evaluate staff counsel attorneys and support staff engaged in defending insureds in civil litigation (auto liability, property, general liability, and related matters). Review and approve litigation strategies, discovery plans, and settlement recommendations. Conduct regular file reviews to ensure quality, efficiency, and compliance with company guidelines and best practices. Recruit, train, and retain high‑performing legal talent. Manage performance metrics and conduct annual evaluations. Foster a professional culture focused on integrity, collaboration, client service, and results. Supervise and, where appropriate, personally handle high‑exposure or complex cases defending insureds. Ensure timely and effective communication with claims representatives, insureds, and company leadership. Provide guidance to attorneys on case assessment, trial strategy, mediation, and settlement. Coordinate with claims management to develop defense strategies and evaluate exposure. Attend mediations, settlement conferences, and trials as required. Review and approve significant pleadings, dispositive motions, and reports. Research applicable laws and prepare legal briefs, opinions, and memoranda. Provide legal opinions on liability, damages, and case value as requested by the Claims Department. Adhere to Southlake Insurance’s Code of Conduct, company policies, and operational standards. Stay current with evolving insurance and corporate legislation, rules, and regulatory requirements. Maintain regular attendance and active engagement at the designated business location. Perform other related duties as assigned. Qualifications Law Degree from an ABA accredited law school with excellent academic credentials. Licensed to practice law in applicable jurisdictions in good standing, meeting all mandatory Continuing Legal Education requirements. 7+ years of relevant legal experience, ideally litigation experience including insurance defense or personal injury. Strong understanding of insurance company operations, contracts, policy forms, and state filing processes. Must be able to travel as required, including but not limited to attend trials, hearings, depositions, management meetings and conferences. May work irregular hours due to workload and nature of work. Compensation & Benefits Competitive salary based on experience. Comprehensive benefits package: medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage. 401(k) matching: up to a 4% match available after 90 days of employment. Competitive incentive program. Location Dallas‑Fort Worth Metroplex Supported Employment Types Full‑time #J-18808-Ljbffr