Description:

We are seeking a high-caliber Lead Counsel / Managing Attorney to spearhead the development of our in-house litigation team.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned legal professional with 5-10+ years of experience in the Michigan insurance landscape. You will serve as the primary architect of our in-house litigation capabilities and handle in-house litigation from inception through trial.

Primary Responsibilities:
In-House Litigation

Lead Counsel: Directly handle a docket of in-house litigated files while developing a dedicated in-house litigation team consisting of attorneys and support staff from the ground up.
Managing Attorney: Mentor and develop attorneys and support staff to build out in-house litigation capabilities, providing support and guidance as well as working with Claims and Legal to develop policies and procedures governing in-house litigation.
Strategy Development: Develop high-level litigation strategies and work directly with Claims and Legal to manage all phases of litigation from inception through final disposition.
Triage & Assignment: Review incoming complaints designated by Legal for in-house handling and assign appropriate in-house counsel based on claim nature, defense requirements, and internal performance metrics.
Valuation & Resolution: Work with Claims and Legal to determine settlement value or trial recommendations on a case-by-case basis, ensuring financial outcomes align with organizational risk tolerance.

Strategic Advisory & Product Development

Executive Counsel: Provide sophisticated legal advice to senior management regarding complex legal issues, sensitive personnel matters, and high-stakes business decisions.
Trend Analysis: Track legal trends and key developments in Michigan No-Fault laws, automobile negligence, tort reform, and wrongful death statutes.
Product Innovation: Assist in the development of new insurance products, ensuring all policy language and structures meet the highest legal and regulatory standards as well as being responsive to observed legal trends.
Best Practices: Advise on claims handling and "best practices" to maintain the enterprise's reputation for integrity and excellence.

Requirements & Qualifications:

Licensure: Must be an active member in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan. Admission to the Federal Western and Eastern Districts of Michigan a plus.
Education: Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school with strong academic credentials.
Experience: 5-10+ years of relevant experience specifically focused on Michigan Insurance Law with emphasis on successful, cost-effective litigation and trial of insurance matters. Successful appellate practice a plus.
Technical Expertise: Extensive, proven knowledge of Michigan No-Fault statutes and Auto Insurance Defense litigation.
Leadership Spirit: A proven track record of handling files from beginning to end and the ability to develop talent and lead effectively.
Communication Mastery: Exceptional verbal and written skills, with the ability to translate complex legal jargon into actionable business advice for senior leadership.