Description:

We are seeking a motivated and highly skilled Trial Attorney with demonstrated litigation and trial experience to join our dynamic legal team. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in civil litigation, particularly in first-party property insurance matters, and must possess strong trial preparation skills and courtroom advocacy. This position offers an exciting opportunity for attorneys who thrive in a high-stakes environment and are eager to take ownership of their cases from inception through resolution, including trial.

The successful candidate will demonstrate proficiency in motion practice, legal research and writing, oral advocacy, and trial strategy. Experience handling depositions, mediations, and trials is required, along with a strong ability to communicate effectively and manage a diverse caseload.

Key Responsibilities:

Represent policyholder clients in all stages of first-party property insurance litigation, including pre-suit evaluations, filing of complaints, motion hearings, depositions, mediations, arbitrations, and jury or bench trials.
Manage a robust caseload of residential and commercial property claims involving hurricane damage, water loss, fire, theft, and other covered perils, from intake through resolution or appeal.
Conduct thorough legal research and apply Florida insurance statutes, case law, and procedural rules to develop tailored litigation strategies that maximize recovery for clients.
Draft and argue complex motions, including motions for summary judgment, motions in limine, Daubert challenges, and motions for sanctions or attorneys' fees under Florida Statutes 627.428 and 57.105.
Take and defend depositions of insureds, public adjusters, corporate representatives, field adjusters, engineers, and other expert witnesses to build the evidentiary record and establish liability.
Prepare comprehensive discovery responses, issue subpoenas, and enforce compliance with discovery obligations under the Florida Rules of Civil Procedure.
Prepare and conduct all trial phases, including jury selection, opening statements, direct and cross-examination of witnesses, introduction of exhibits, and closing arguments.
Actively participate in mediations and settlement conferences, utilizing a command of the file and strong negotiation skills to advocate for client interests and secure favorable outcomes.
Communicate regularly with clients to provide case updates, explain legal options, and manage expectations throughout the litigation process.
Collaborate with experts in construction, engineering, meteorology, and forensic accounting to develop persuasive case theories and damages models.
Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the firm's case management system, ensuring compliance with internal workflows and court deadlines.
Stay current on changes in Florida's insurance litigation landscape, including legislative updates, appellate decisions, and rule amendments, to provide strategic insights and risk assessments.
Contribute to internal training and mentorship efforts by guiding junior attorneys and support staff on first-party litigation procedures, courtroom preparation, and trial advocacy.

Requirements:

Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
Active member in good standing with the state bar.
3–5 years of litigation experience, including courtroom and trial experience.
Strong legal writing and oral advocacy skills.
Demonstrated ability to handle contested hearings and trials independently or as second chair.
Familiarity with first-party property litigation preferred.
Highly organized with the ability to manage competing deadlines and priorities.
Technologically proficient in legal research and case management platforms.

Preferred Qualifications: