Associate Attorney - Insurance Coverage Defense

Overview

A law firm with a Portland/Vancouver based insurance coverage practice is seeking a junior to midlevel associate. The practice handles matters under various commercial insurance policies, representing insurers in coverage disputes across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana. This role requires strong research and drafting skills, the ability to work closely with partners and clients, and a commitment to a 1,950-hour annual billable requirement. Flexible remote or hybrid work options are available.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate insurance policies and assess risks, communicating legal standards relevant to insurance coverage disputes to clients.
• Conduct extensive legal research and draft coverage opinions, briefs, memos, and pleadings.
• Represent insurer clients in court proceedings and depositions.
• Collaborate closely with partners and clients to provide timely coverage advice.
• Manage deadlines and assignments independently with a high level of ownership.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in Oregon and/or Washington; additional bar admissions in Idaho or Montana are advantageous.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in insurer or policyholder coverage practice.
• Experience with depositions and mediations; extended coverage opinion experience is a plus.
• Strong legal research and writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Professional demeanor with excellent client-relations and communication skills.
• Highly organized, responsive, and able to prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Significant familiarity with insurance policies and coverage determinations.
• Experience in coverage litigation, including depositions.
• Experience with Commercial General Liability (CGL), Directors & Officers (D&O), Errors & Omissions (E&O), Employment Practices Liability (EPL), Fiduciary, Professional Liability, and Property insurance policies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Compensation & Benefits

• Full-time position with a 1,950-hour annual billable requirement.
• Flexible remote or hybrid work options.

Location

Portland, Oregon / Vancouver, Washington area