Liability Trial Attorney

Zurich is seeking a successful Liability Trial Attorney to work out of our Chicago, IL Staff Legal office on a hybrid schedule.

This litigator will be responsible for representing the commercial insureds of a prestigious and financially stable commercial insurance carrier, by preparing and trying moderate to high exposure General Liability, Commercial Auto and Products Liability and employment cases from a challenging and varied caseload. 

If you are ready for a career move, consider working for a company with a global footprint that offers an excellent work/life balance, terrific benefits including an incentive plan, 401K match and a second 401K company contribution, flexible work options, summer hours and a great culture.

This is an exciting opportunity to work for a well-respected Company and represent its insureds in all phases of litigation, while being part of a high-performing law office. The ideal candidate will be able to engage in the practice of law, at all times in compliance with the ethical standards as established by the national/local area of practice. 

The selected candidate will perform duties encompassing all aspects of insurance defense, including initial investigation and legal analysis and advice, preparing and filing legal pleadings and documents, performing legal research, preparing for and conducting pre-trial discovery, preparing for and aggressively handling hearings and trials, and conducting post-trial activities where appropriate. We are looking for demonstrated case analysis ability, a track record of proven trial and settlement skills and the ability to work independently without substantial supervision. 

Additional responsibilities will include:

• Achieve best outcomes for clients by demonstrating a high level of technical excellence in case handling, trial preparation and presentation for matters of moderate to high complexity
• Drive positive outcomes by correctly applying the law and legal trends, conducting legal analysis and research, preparing legal pleadings and documents, preparing for and managing pre-trial discovery, and participating in judicial or administrative hearings and trials
• Document case files by accurately capturing and updating relevant information in compliance with best practices
• Work to have a timely resolution to matters by collaborating with the claims adjuster, developing a case strategy and escalating issues as appropriate
• Ensure customer service to clients by proactively communicating information; responding to inquiries; and following customer protocols
• Determine and implement alternative dispute resolution techniques as appropriate, by using effective mediation and negotiation skills within authority limit
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by participating in educational opportunities, staying current with industry trends, establishing personal networks and participating in professional societies
• Contribute to the team effort by accomplishing related results and collaborating on matters as needed
• Serve as a technical resource by providing guidance and/or mentoring lower level attorneys on legal strategies and use of tools and resources
• Ensure legal compliance by following state and federal laws and regulations
• Protect Zurich’s reputation by keeping claims information confidential

Basic Qualifications:

• Juris Doctor and 5 or more years of experience in the Litigation area
  AND
• Member in good standing of the Illinois State Bar Association
• Experience with Microsoft Office and Adobe
• Experience working with Lexis or Westlaw
• Knowledge of the insurance industry, claims and the insurance defense litigation legal environment
• Knowledge of the law and procedure

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Effective communication skills
• Effective negotiation skills
• Experience working in a team-based environment
• Collaboration skills
• Effective problem solving and analytical skills
• Member in good standing of the Indiana State Bar Association

At Zurich, compensation for roles is influenced by a variety of factors, including but not limited to the specific office location, role, skill set, and level of experience. In compliance with local laws, Zurich commits to providing a fair and reasonable compensation range for each role. For more information about our Total Rewards, please click here. Additional rewards may encompass short-term incentive bonuses and merit increases. We encourage candidates with salary expectations beyond the provided range to apply as they will be considered based on their experience, skills, and education. The compensation indicated represents a nationwide market range and has not been adjusted for geographic differentials pertaining to the location where the position may be filled. The proposed salary range for this position is $115,000.00 - $140,000.00, with short-term incentive bonus eligibility set at 10%. 

As an insurance company, Zurich is subject to 18 U.S. Code § 1033. 
 

A future with Zurich. What can go right when you apply at Zurich?

Now is the time to move forward and make a difference. At Zurich, we want you to share your unique perspectives, experiences and ideas so we can grow and drive sustainable change together. As part of a leading global organization, Zurich North America has over 150 years of experience managing risk and supporting resilience. Today, Zurich North America is a leading provider of commercial property-casualty insurance solutions and a wide range of risk management products and services for businesses and individuals. We serve more than 25 industries, from agriculture to technology, and we insure 90% of the Fortune 500®. Our growth strategy is not limited to our business. As an employer, we strive to provide ongoing career development opportunities, and we foster an environment where voices are diverse, behaviors are inclusive, actions drive equity, and our people feel a sense of belonging. Be a part of the next evolution of the insurance industry. Join us in building a brighter future for our colleagues, our customers and the communities we serve. Zurich maintains a comprehensive employee benefits package for employees as well as eligible dependents and competitive compensation. Please click here to learn more.

Zurich in North America is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. 

Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Any unsolicited resume will become the property of Zurich American Insurance. If you are a preferred vendor, please use our Recruiting Agency Portal for resume submission. 

Location(s): AM - Chicago
Remote Working: Hybrid
Schedule: Full Time
Employment Sponsorship Offered: No 
 
Linkedin Recruiter Tag: #LI-KO1 #LI-ASSOCIATE #LI-HYBRID