Associate Attorney (Entry-Level)

Job Description

Job Description

Whitley Law Firm is looking for someone with a passion for helping clients, we're looking for an Associate Worker's Compensation (WC) Attorney to join our team. Employees at Whitley Law Firm share a mission of obtaining the best results for our deserving clients.

This person will work directly under the leadership and mentorship of our WC Attorney of the department and have hands-on management of personal injury cases related to worker's compensation claims and work with a team of dedicated case managers, case manager assistants, and/or paralegals. We are seeking a motivated recent law school graduate or entry-level attorney to join our team as an Associate Attorney. This role is ideal for candidates looking to gain practical experience and develop their legal skills under the supervision of an experienced attorney.

Anticipated Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Can begin as an internship and transition into full-time employment if awaiting Bar Exam results.

Key Responsibilities:
Case Management:

• Managing a caseload of litigation matters to resolution.
• Examines legal and medical data to determine insurance coverage, liability, and damages.
• Communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel and insurance companies
• Ensure client satisfaction and timely follow-up throughout each case.

Legal proceedings

• Draft pleadings, motions, demands and other legal documents
• Represent clients in negotiations, mediations, court hearings and trials
• Conduct depositions and interviews with clients, witnesses and experts
• Prepare for and participate in trial proceedings as necessary

Team and Relationships

• Build and establish relationships in the communities we serve to enhance our brand recognition, marketing efforts and client service.

Compliance

• Conduct legal research and analysis related to personal injury laws, regulations and precedents.
• Stay updated on developments in personal injury litigation law and related areas
• File appropriate documents for Industrial Commission and other related entities as it relates to cases.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills
• Must be able to exercise extensive independent judgment to make decisions in carrying out assignments that have substantial impact on the department
• Excellent written, verbal, and negotiation communication skills
• Proficient in English, Bilingual proficiency in Spanish is highly preferred
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines
• Commitment to providing high quality legal representation and client service
• Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and cross-departmentally to reach firm goals
• Must be able to efficiently and effectively utilize a CMS (Client Management System)
• Proven utilization of technology, including computers, databases, portals, and software, needed to successfully perform the job.
• Exhibits a professional and courteous demeanor to team members and the public with demonstrated compassion and empathy for clients, with the ability to de-escalate when needed
• High level of professionalism and ethical behavior.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Juris Doctor(JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Licensed or pending bar admission in NC if a recent graduate. Active membership in the State Bar of North Carolina with good standing or ability to obtain within first 90 days of employment.

Preferred Experience Requirements:

• Relevant internships, clerkships, or law review experience
• Interest in personal injury and worker's compensation
• Court, trial, and mediation experiences

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance + Employer contribution
• Medical and Dependent Care Savings Accounts: HSA, FSA, DCA
• Company paid Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability (STD)
• Paid time off (PTO) + 12 Company Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)