Description:
Overview:Selective Insurance is seeking a PIP Trial Attorney to work in either our Roseland, Hamilton or Marlton, NJ staff counsel office. This is a hybrid role with 2 days in the office.
Provides legal representation to insureds of the Company in defense of PIP/No Fault arbitrations and litigated claims. Provides advice to the claims department of the Company and represents the Company in certain litigated matters, primarily UM/UIM matters. Responsible for managing a case load from inception to resolution. All job duties and responsibilities must be carried out in compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Responsibilities:
- Significant portion of case load will include defending No Fault/PIP arbitrations, appearing electronically for all such hearings. Also responsible for any necessary mod/clar's or appeals that are necessary. Experience in handling PIP arbs is required.
- Portion of caseload will include defending UM/UIM suits. Experience conducting discovery including drafting pleadings, motions, briefs, reports and conducting depositions is preferred.
- Independently represents the Insured before the assigned Court and presents witnesses and evidence on litigated claims.
- Analyzes complex legal and factual issues, conducts extensive, well-reasoned legal research, independently develops and presents initial defense strategies on behalf of the Insured.
- Drafts PIP/No Fault submissions, pleadings, written discovery, motions and briefs in support of defense strategies.
- Prepares for, attends and handles all activities related to full trial and/or appeals, as assigned.
- Provides effective and timely communications, information, legal advice and other services to clients and claims professionals on legal and factual issues.
- Assists in developing training materials for the Claims Department.
- Communicates with the Court, witnesses, opposing counsel and clients in a manner consistent with established office procedures and the Code of Professional Conduct.
- Responsible for the prompt, efficient and effective disposition of assigned cases. Travels to depositions, court appearances, claims and client meetings, and other events as necessary. Car travel represents approximately 20% of employee's time.
- Keeps current with market trends and demands. Attends continuing legal education seminars in order to maintain a high level of professional expertise. Performs all other functionally related duties as assigned by the Managing Attorney.
Qualifications:
Knowledge and Requirements
- Excellent customer service, writing and oral communication skills required.
- Ability to demonstrate independent judgment, research, litigation, and analytical skills.
- Strong legal research and writing skills required.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook and Edge or Chrome required.
- Legal case management software experience required
- Typing skills required.
- Detailed knowledge of the business unit and industry preferred.
- Experience with TeamConnect and dictation software preferred.
- Must have valid state-issued driver's license in good standing.
Education and Experience:
- 7+ years legal experience in the jurisdiction required.
- Juris Doctor degree from ABA accredited law school required. Member in good standing of the Bar in New Jersey.
- Knowledge of Forthright rules, State laws, local court policies and procedures.
- Trial experience preferred but not required.