Senior Trial Attorney

About Us

At Selective, we don't just insure uniquely, we employ uniqueness.

Selective is a midsized U.S. domestic property and casualty insurance company with a history of strong, consistent financial performance for nearly 100 years. Selective's unique position as both a leading insurance group and an employer of choice is recognized in a wide variety of awards and honors, including listing in Forbes Best Midsize Employers in 2025 and certification as a Great Place to Work in 2025 for the sixth consecutive year.

Employees are empowered and encouraged to Be Uniquely You by being their true, unique selves and contributing their diverse talents, experiences, and perspectives to our shared success. Together, we are a high-performing team working to serve our customers responsibly by helping to mitigate loss, keep them safe, and restore their lives and businesses after an insured loss occurs. Overview

Selective Insurance is seeking an experienced Senior/Trial Attorney to handle cases for our Workers Compensation Program located in our Chicago, IL staff counsel team. This is a hybrid role with 2 days in the office and 3 days remote.

The attorney, with the assistance of a talented support staff, will be responsible for the defense of the case from start to resolution. The position requires exceptional client communication skills, documented trial skills as well as the ability to report and respond to the carrier with insight and timeliness. In return, the position offers a competitive salary, benefits and the opportunity to use your litigation skills.

Responsibilities

• Independently represents the Insured before the assigned Court and presents witnesses and evidence on litigated claims.
• Analyzes complex legal and factual issues, conducts extensive, well-reasoned legal research, independently develops and presents defense strategies on behalf of the Insured.
• Prepares pleadings, written discovery, motions and briefs in support of defense strategies.
• Prepares for, attends and handles all activities related to full trial and/or appeals, as assigned.
• Provides effective and timely communications, information, legal advice and other services to clients and claims professionals on legal and factual issues.
• Assists with developing training materials and presenting seminars to the Claim Department.
• Communicates with the Court, witnesses, opposing counsel and clients in a manner consistent with established office procedures and the Code of Professional Conduct.
• Responsible for the prompt, efficient and effective disposition of assigned cases.
• Travels to depositions, court appearances, claims and client meetings, and other events as necessary. Car travel represents approximately 20% of employee's time.
• Keeps current with market trends and demands. Attends continuing legal education seminars to maintain a high level of professional expertise. Engages in other activity as directed by the managing attorney.

Qualifications

Knowledge and Requirements

• Excellent customer service, writing and oral communication skills required.
• Ability to demonstrate independent judgment, research, litigation, and analytical skills.
• Strong legal research and writing skills required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Edge or Chrome required.
• Legal case management software experience required.
• Typing skills required.
• Detailed knowledge of the business unit and industry preferred.
• Must have valid state-issued driver's license in good standing.

Education and Experience

• 15+ years litigation experience in the jurisdiction preferred. (7 Years experience for the Trial Attorney).
• 7+ years of Connecticut Workers Compensation experience required.
• Juris Doctor degree from ABA accredited law school required. Member in good standing of the Bar of the jurisdiction (CT) required.
• Knowledge of State laws, local court policies and procedures.
• Trial experience preferred.
• Multi-state Bar admittance preferred.

Total Rewards

Selective Insurance offers a total rewards package that includes a competitive base salary, incentive plan eligibility at all levels, and a wide array of benefits designed to help you and your family stay healthy, achieve your financial goals, and balance the demands of your work and personal life. These benefits include comprehensive health care plans, retirement savings plan with company match, discounted Employee Stock Purchase Program, tuition assistance and reimbursement programs, and 20 days of paid time off. Additional details about our total rewards package can be found by visiting our benefits page.

The actual base salary is based on geographic location, and the range is representative of salaries for this role throughout Selective's footprint. Additional considerations include relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, performance, and business needs. Pay Range

USD $133,000.00 - USD $189,000.00 /Yr.
Additional Information

Selective is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. That means we respect and value every individual's unique opinions, beliefs, abilities, and perspectives. We are committed to promoting a welcoming culture that celebrates diverse talent, individual identity, different points of view and experiences - and empowers employees to contribute new ideas that support our continued and growing success. Building a highly engaged team is one of our core strategic imperatives, which we believe is enhanced by diversity, equity, and inclusion. We expect and encourage all employees and all of our business partners to embrace, practice, and monitor the attitudes, values, and goals of acceptance; address biases; and foster diversity of viewpoints and opinions.

For Massachusetts Applicants

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.