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AAA-The Auto Club Group · 1 day ago

Associate Attorney

Grand Rapids, MI

Full-time

Hybrid

Entry, Mid Level

$89K/yr - $110K/yr

2+ years exp

AAA The Auto Club Group is seeking an Associate Attorney to join their team. The role involves handling litigation and cases of intermediate-level exposure and complexity, with responsibilities including trial preparation, negotiation, and presenting cases in court.

Insurance

Responsibilities

Reviews and analyzes files, insurance policies, all allegations and pertinent medical and technical data

Consults with medical and accident reconstruction specialists regarding injuries and disabilities. Prepares responses to civil complaints, files and answers any appropriate motions when questions of law or liability are in dispute

Determines feasibility of including third-party defendants in pending suits

Selects legal investigators and arranges for service of subpoenas and summonses

Files additional motions as facts of case and proper timing warrant

Conducts discovery depositions; formulates interrogatories

Under moderate supervision of a Practice Leader, conducts examinations under oath

Analyzes information obtained through discovery and determines whether settlement is appropriate within his/her authority according to the Company guidelines

Prepares case for trial, examining facts and developing trial strategy for construction of a strong defense. Participates in jury selection

Prepares and submits pre-trial statements; attends pre-trial hearings before judge. Conducts defense of case, including delivery of opening statement, examination and cross-examination of witnesses, makes and argues motions, confers with judges and attorneys, delivers closing argument; prepares trial brief which includes insured’s defense, applicable law, and jury instructions, when appropriate

Prepares mediation summaries and appears before Mediation Tribunal to advocate defendant’s case. Evaluates award and makes decision as to whether to accept or go to trial within his/her authority

Prepares uninsured motorist cases for arbitration hearings

Researches all pertinent documents and data; presents cases before arbitration tribunals

Keeps client advised of status of case in accordance with office guidelines and client satisfaction goals and consults with third-party clients regarding litigation against them, particularly as to its effect on their personal assets

Advises insured and refers to independent counsel to protect insured’s assets in event of an “over-limits” judgment as required

Coordinates trial or settlement activity with co-counsel, as necessary, to protect interest of insured

Applies cost/benefit considerations to all litigation activity in conjunction with evaluation with supervisor

Negotiates reasonable and equitable pre-trial settlements on behalf of Company and insured, when and where possible

Consults with senior-level Attorneys on more complex cases when necessary. Recommends to Appeals Committee whether judgments should be appealed based upon facts of cases and chances of recovery

Prepares memorandums and presents cases to Appeals Committee or Executive Committee

With approval from Practice Leader, renders legal advice and opinions to branch claim personnel as requested

Qualification

Juris Doctor DegreeState Bar MembershipLitigation ExperienceCivil Law KnowledgeInsurance Law KnowledgeLegal Research SkillsTrial ExperienceAnalytical SkillsCommunication SkillsNegotiation Skills