Defense Attorney (Workers’ Compensation) – VA

Licensed in Virginia

SUMMARY:    

Workers Compensation Defense Attorney needed for in-house litigation position, working under the direction of the General Counsel.  This position will work defending litigated Workers’ Compensation claims before hearing locations, primarily in and surrounding the Virginia area. This attorney will conduct research where necessary, examine records, conducts investigations, attends depositions, consult with witnesses, insured(s), legal assistants, and/or personnel.  Participate in negotiations on behalf of the Company including settlements.  In addition, this position will provide leadership and expertise on major company projects as necessary.

Claims Focus:  This position will provide state specific legal representation before courts, arbitration panels and/or administrative bodies. Serve in an advisory capacity to company and employees. Prepare legal pleadings, motions, memorandums, trial briefs, etc. Conduct research where necessary, examine records, attend depositions, consult with witnesses, insured(s), legal assistants, and/or personnel. Prepare appeals and perform the necessary research. Participate in negotiations on behalf of the company and policyholders, including settlements. In addition, this position will provide leadership and expertise on major company projects as necessary.

RESPONSIBILITIES/TASKS: 

• Responsible for applying legal principles, knowledge and skills based on experience.

• Evaluates and selects appropriate legal techniques, procedures and criteria using judgment in solving legal issues.

• Drafts and/or dictates legal correspondence and memorandums and works with minimal supervision on all assigned matters. 

• Conducts legal research and offers timely legal opinions and advice upon reasonable demand.

• Provides objective assessment of risk areas.

• Works on special projects as assigned.

This position description identifies the responsibilities and tasks typically associated with the performance of the position.  Other relevant essential functions may be required.

EMPLOYMENT QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION:

A Juris Doctor Degree and admission to the bar (in good standing) in employed state(s) required. Continuous learning, as defined by the Company’s learning philosophy, is required. 

EXPERIENCE:

A minimum of four (4) years of legal experience, with two years of experience in the insurance industry preferred. 

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES (SKA) REQUIRED: 

• Knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations governing insurance.
• Ability to understand complex legal issues.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills; ability to interface with legal counsel and business groups at all levels of the organization.
• Effective leadership, management and advocacy skills.
• Strong problem solver; excellent project management skills; attention to detail.
• Skilled in development of policies, procedures, training methods and materials. 
• Basic to working knowledge of corporate policies and procedures. 
• Basic to working knowledge of contracting concepts and Uniform Commercial Code.
• Ability to draft and review simple contractual instruments 
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret statutes, general business and legal periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures and governmental regulations.
• Highly developed sense of ethics and integrity.
• In-depth knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations governing the enterprise.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment. 
• Illustrates sound judgment and has the ability to encourage others to use professional judgment. 
• Ability to develop optimistic and collaborative relationships both internally and externally.
• Possesses understanding of the business and has an appreciation of financial/analytical issues and profit and loss implications. 
• Significant ability to influence senior corporate management. 
• Ability to perform in complex cross-functional business environment. 
• Must be able to develop rapport with client and to engender confidence with the client and in their own professional competence and judgment.
• Excellent presentation, teambuilding and leadership skills. 
• Good analytical, negotiation, organizational, presentation, verbal and written communication skills.
• Qualified to effectively present information and respond to questions from courts, regulators, clients, customers and the general public.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work is mostly performed in an office setting with no unusual hazards.  Travel is required. Must be able to drive an automobile and have valid operator license. Specific vision abilities required by this job includes close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to handle documents, books, manuals; reach with hands and arms; talk; and hear.

 PAY RANGE: 

“Actual compensation decision relies on the consideration of internal equity, candidate’s skills and professional experience, geographic location, market and other potential factors. It is not standard practice for an offer to be at or near the top of the range, and therefore a reasonable estimate for this role is between $121,500 and $203,400.”

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any form. Candidates for the position stated above are hired on an "at will" basis.  Nothing herein is intended to create a contract.

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Accident Fund Insurance Company of America