Associate Attorney

A respected boutique law firm with a statewide insurance defense practice is seeking an Associate Attorney or Of Counsel to join its growing team in Buffalo, NY. This position is open due to continued growth and an influx of work. The ideal candidate will have 2–8 years of litigation experience, with a focus on insurance defense, though the firm is open to considering attorneys with strong litigation backgrounds who are interested in building a career in insurance defense.

This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney seeking significant courtroom exposure, hands-on litigation experience, and the opportunity to work on matters that may receive less direct attention at larger firms.

Responsibilities include:

• Manage a caseload of insurance defense matters through all phases of litigation
• Handle matters primarily in New York State Court, including appearances, conferences, hearings, and depositions
• Take and defend depositions and prepare cases for trial
• Draft pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and other litigation documents
• Analyze claims, develop case strategy, and proactively manage assigned files
• Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and insurance carriers
• Attend court regularly and advocate on behalf of clients
• Work collaboratively with senior attorneys on case strategy and resolution

Qualifications:

• 2–8 years of litigation experience preferred
• Experience with insurance defense is a plus, but not required for the right candidate
• Familiarity with New York CPLR and state court practice
• Strong writing, research, and oral advocacy skills
• Trial team, moot court, or advocacy experience preferred
• Solid academic background
• Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and take ownership of matters
• Commitment to long-term professional growth with the firm