Staff Counsel, Claims

Overview

Join a dynamic and collaborative legal team where you will handle a diverse caseload of California insurance defense matters from inception through resolution. This role offers significant independence, meaningful client interaction, and the opportunity to shape case strategy without billable hour requirements.

Ideal candidates bring experience in WC litigation, strong advocacy skills, and a desire to contribute to a supportive, high-performing legal environment. Attorneys at all levels - whether looking to grow or seeking a seasoned role with autonomy - will find opportunities for impact and professional development.

Responsibilities

• Independently represent insureds before the assigned Court, presenting witnesses and evidence on litigated claims.
• Analyze complex legal and factual issues and conduct thorough research to develop and execute effective defense strategies.
• Draft pleadings, discovery, motions, and briefs aligned with case strategy and procedural requirements.
• Prepare for and attend trials, expedited hearings, depositions, and appeals as assigned.
• Provide clear, timely communication and legal guidance to clients and claims professionals.
• Apply strong independent judgment, analytical skills, and litigation experience to drive optimal case outcomes.
• Contribute to the development of training materials and educational sessions for the Claims Department.
• Partner with Claims and Litigation leadership on special projects impacting the practice and line of business.
• Communicates with the Court, witnesses, opposing counsel and clients in a manner consistent with established office procedures and the Code of Professional Conduct.
• Ensure cases progress efficiently, managing workload to achieve timely resolutions.
• Participate in continuing legal education to stay current with insurance law, trends, and industry developments.
• Perform additional related duties as needed.

Qualifications

Required:

• Active California State Bar license.
• Solid knowledge of state laws, local court policies and procedures.
• Strong legal research, writing, and advocacy skills.
• 3–15+ years of P&C/worker's compensation related insurance litigation experience.

Preferred:

• Multi-state Bar admittance
• Experience with Team Connect legal software and dictation.
• Experience with the supervision and development of more junior attorneys.

The expected salary range for this role is $115,000-$180,000/year.

Please note that the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon a wide range of factors considered in making the compensation decision, including, but not limited to, candidate skills, experience, education and training, the scope and responsibilities of the role, as well as market and business considerations.

What We Offer

AmTrust Financial Services offers a competitive compensation package and excellent career advancement opportunities. Our benefits include Medical & Dental Plans, Life Insurance, including eligible spouses & children, Health Care Flexible Spending, Dependent Care, 401k Savings Plans, Paid Time Off.

AmTrust strives to create a diverse and inclusive culture where thoughts and ideas of all employees are appreciated and respected. This concept encompasses but is not limited to human differences with regard to race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, culture, religion or disabilities.

AmTrust values excellence and recognizes that by embracing the diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives of its workforce, it will sustain a competitive advantage and remain an employer of choice. Diversity is a business imperative, enabling us to attract, retain and develop the best talent available. We see diversity as more than just policies and practices. It is an integral part of who we are as a company, how we operate and how we see our future.