Associate Attorney - Insurance Defense Litigation

KPM LAW (Kalbaugh Pfund & Messersmith, P.C.); Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k with firm match

PTO

Flexible work arrangements

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

A reputable insurance defense firm in Norfolk, Virginia is seeking Associate Attorneys with 2–5 years of litigation experience. This position offers a unique opportunity to manage diverse defense litigation cases, gain trial exposure, and collaborate with a supportive team of seasoned attorneys. Ideal candidates will hold a J.D. and be licensed in Virginia, demonstrating strong research, writing, and advocacy skills. The firm also offers competitive compensation, bonuses, and excellent benefits including 401k matching and flexible work options.

Qualifications

• Licensed and in good standing in Virginia.
• 2–5 years of litigation experience; open to more senior candidates.
• Insurance defense experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Manage 30–40 active litigation files including discovery and depositions.
• Handle a docket of personal injury, premises liability, and auto claims.
• Draft pleadings, discovery, and legal memoranda.

Skills

Research skills

Writing skills

Oral advocacy

Organizational skills

Education

J.D. from an accredited law school

Job description

Kalbaugh, Pfund & Messersmith (KPM) is one of the largest insurance defense firms in Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic, with nearly 35 years of experience serving national and international insurance carriers and self-insured companies. With strategically located offices in Virginia and attorneys licensed across VA, MD, DC, WV, and NC, we are known for efficiency, excellence, and trial-ready defense.

The Opportunity

We are seeking Associate Attorneys with 2–5 years of litigation experience to join our Norfolk office. This is a great opportunity to handle diverse defense litigation, gain trial experience, and work with a team of seasoned attorneys.

Responsibilities

• Manage 30–40 active litigation files, including discovery, depositions, motions, and client reporting.
• Handle a docket of personal injury, premises liability, products liability, general liability, and auto claims.
• Handle matters in both State and Federal Court.
• Work in a team structure with multiple attorneys and support staff.
• Communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and claims professionals.
• Draft pleadings, discovery, and legal memoranda.
• Contribute to trial prep and strategy.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school.
• Licensed and in good standing in Virginia.
• 2–5 years of litigation experience (open to more senior).
• Excellent research, writing, and oral advocacy skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a busy docket independently.
• Insurance defense experience is a plus.

Why KPM?

• Early trial exposure and hands-on experience.
• Collaborative, supportive culture.
• Competitive compensation with performance-based bonuses.
• Benefits include 401k with firm match, PTO, and flexible work arrangements.

KPM LAW is an equal opportunity employer. We do not accept unsolicited resume submissions from search firms; firms submitting without prior agreement will not be eligible for compensation.