Associate Attorney - Insurance Defense Litigation

KPM LAW (Kalbaugh Pfund & Messersmith, P.C.); Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k with firm match

PTO

Flexible work arrangements

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

A leading insurance defense firm in Richmond, VA seeks Associate Attorneys with 1–3 years of litigation experience. This role involves managing active litigation files, handling various types of claims, and collaborating with a supportive team. Candidates must possess a J.D. from an accredited law school and be licensed to practice in Virginia. The firm offers early trial exposure, competitive compensation, and a supportive culture with excellent benefits, including a 401k match.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of litigation experience, preferably in insurance defense.
• Licensed and in good standing in Virginia.
• Ability to manage a busy docket and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Manage 30-40 active litigation files and handle discovery.
• Draft pleadings, motions, and legal memoranda.
• Contribute to trial preparation and strategy.

Skills

Research skills

Writing skills

Oral advocacy skills

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 1–2 Associate Attorneys with 1–3 years of litigation experience to join our Richmond 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 personal injury, premises liability, products liability, general liability, civil rights, and contract 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.
• 1–3 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.