Overview
This role involves California Workers’ Compensation defense legal work representing the organization and its policyholders from case inception through resolution. Positions may be available at either Staff Attorney (LM07EE) or Senior Staff Attorney (LM07DE), depending on experience.
Responsibilities
- Independently handle all phases of California workers’ compensation defense, including:
- Pleadings
- Discovery
- Depositions
- Lien strategy
- Settlements
- Hearings and trial
- Develop and execute case strategy based on factual investigation, legal research, and practical risk evaluation.
- Draft and argue motions, petitions for reconsideration, trial briefs, and (as needed) appellate briefs.
- Prepare and present witnesses and evidence at trial/hearings/ADR proceedings; coordinate with experts and third-party vendors as needed.
- Provide timely, clear legal advice to claims partners and insureds, including consistent communication of case status, recommendations, and valuation updates.
- Maintain professional relationships with opposing counsel, judges/boards, and external partners while demonstrating diplomacy and strong advocacy.
- Support a learning culture by participating in team huddles, case roundtables, file reviews, and occasional training for attorneys and claims partners.
- Stay current on changes in California workers’ compensation law, WCAB procedures, and legal technology; maintain continuing legal education as required.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
- Active license to practice law in California and member in good standing of the applicable Bar Association.
- Strong legal research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
- Demonstrated ability to independently manage a caseload of 100–115 active workers’ compensation files, including master and companion files, in a collaborative and results-driven environment.
- Professional, client-focused communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively in a matrixed environment (legal + claims).
- Comfort working in a primarily remote environment and using technology to manage a paperless practice.
- WCAB trial/hearing experience and strong deposition skills.
- Experience drafting petitions for reconsideration and handling appeals.
- Experience with LexisNexis (or similar) and litigation/case management systems.
- Demonstrated interest in mentoring/training and contributing to process improvements.
Preferred Qualifications
- Trial/hearing experience preferred for Senior Staff Attorney.
Experience Level
- Staff Attorney (LM07EE): 2+ years of legal practice experience, including experience handling California workers’ compensation matters or comparable experience.
- Senior Staff Attorney (LM07DE): 5+ years of legal practice experience with significant, independent handling of complex California workers’ compensation cases or comparable experience; trial/hearing experience preferred.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive compensation, along with an annual incentive bonus plan
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Generous Paid time off and company holidays
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities
- Employee assistance and wellness programs
- Employee discounts and additional voluntary benefits
- Company-provided equipment, internet reimbursement, and role-related expense reimbursements
Base pay range (annualized): $118,800 - $198,600
Base pay could vary based on performance, proficiency, and demonstration of competencies required for the role. Total compensation may also include short-term or annual bonuses, long-term incentives, and on-the-spot recognition.
Location
- Remote role for applicants who reside in California.
- Remote work from California day to day, with occasional in-person appearances based on case needs.
- Coverage areas may include Northern California—such as the Greater San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and the Central Valley—as well as Southern California, including Los Angeles County, Orange County, the Inland Empire, and San Diego.
Equal Opportunity
Equal Opportunity Employer/Sex/Race/Color/Veterans/Disability/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity or Expression/Religion/Age