Senior Counsel (Sexual Torts Defense)

Overview

A national insurance defense firm is seeking a Senior Counsel to join their Complex Trial Teams specializing in sexual torts defense. This role involves leading the defense of clients in high-value, sensitive civil litigation cases involving sexual misconduct, institutional liability, and related claims. The position requires an active California bar license.

Responsibilities

• Develop compelling case themes that effectively counter plaintiff strategies
• Maintain high standards of legal practice, refusing to accept mediocrity
• Independently manage court appearances, depositions, briefs, and trials
• Collaborate with team members across experience levels
• Communicate routinely with clients
• Build and maintain client relationships
• Provide leadership and mentorship to less experienced attorneys

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school
• Active bar license in the State of California
• Minimum of 8 years of litigation experience, including deposition and trial preparation
• Ability to manage full case responsibilities, including discovery and trial
• Experience in insurance defense preferred
• Proficiency with time management systems and Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Strong independent judgment and minimal supervision required
• Excellent listening, verbal, and written communication skills
• Professional appearance and demeanor

Preferred Qualifications

• Significant experience defending institutions, professionals, or insured entities in sexual assault, harassment, or abuse cases
• Familiarity with trauma-informed defense practices
• Strong courtroom presence and strategic instincts
• Experience working with expert witnesses and cross-functional teams
• Leadership and mentoring capabilities

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary range: $160,000 to $200,000 annually, commensurate with experience
• Annual billable hours bonus starting at $10,000, with additional bonuses of $7,500 per tier
• Comprehensive benefits including health, vision, dental, and life insurance with employer contributions averaging $700 to $1,700 annually
• 401(k) plan with 100% match on first 3% contributed and 50% match on next 4-5%
• Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan ($100-$200/month) available after one year of full-time employment
• Paid parental leave at base pay
• Monthly technology reimbursement of $60
• Employee Assistance Program
• In-house training and leadership development
• Firm-provided CLE programs and paid bar license renewal fees
• Flexible vacation policy
• Defined pathway to partnership
• Internal diversity and inclusion initiatives
• Firm-wide charitable giving program
• Social and off-site events
• Flexible work model: remote, hybrid, or onsite options available

Location

• Must be licensed to practice law in California
• Flexible work options including remote, hybrid, or onsite

Equal Opportunity

The employer is committed to equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment based on race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.

Additional Information

• No recruiters or agencies
• Attention to detail is highly valued in applicants
• This is a senior-level position requiring discretion, empathy, and strategic leadership in complex, emotionally charged litigation