Defense Litigation Attorney

Rare Bird Recruiting; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) plan

Employer 401(k) contributions

Generous paid time off

Firm holidays

CLE support

Hybrid work

Job summary

This opportunity with Rare Bird Recruiting, LLC in New York targets a defense litigation attorney with strong research, writing, and oral advocacy skills. You will manage matters from assignment through trial, handle discovery, depose witnesses, and participate in hearings, arbitrations, and settlement discussions.

Ideal candidates have a JD, NY Bar admission, and 3+ years of defense experience, with a track record of robust client communication and strategic case management in a fast-paced

Qualifications

• JD from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in the New York State Bar.
• 3+ years of defense litigation experience preferred.
• Strong legal writing, research, and oral advocacy skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of defense litigation matters from initial assignment through trial and appeal if necessary.
• Conduct legal research and prepare pleadings, motions, briefs, and other litigation-related documents.
• Handle all aspects of discovery, including drafting and responding to discovery demands and e-discovery.
• Conduct and defend depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts.
• Attend court appearances, hearings, conferences, arbitrations, mediations, and settlement negotiations.
• Develop litigation strategy and provide legal analysis to clients and firm leadership.
• Collaborate with partners, associates, experts, and support staff to ensure efficient case management.
• Maintain strong client relationships through regular communication and reporting.
• Prepare cases for trial and participate in trial proceedings as required.

Skills

Legal writing

Legal research

Oral advocacy

Depositions

Client communication

Case management

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Job description

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of defense litigation matters from initial assignment through trial and appeal, if necessary.
• Conduct legal research and prepare pleadings, motions, briefs, and other litigation-related documents.
• Handle all aspects of discovery, including drafting and responding to discovery demands, document review, and e-discovery.
• Conduct and defend depositions of parties, witnesses, and experts.
• Attend court appearances, hearings, conferences, arbitrations, mediations, and settlement negotiations.
• Develop litigation strategy and provide legal analysis to clients and firm leadership.
• Collaborate with partners, associates, experts, and support staff to ensure efficient case management.
• Maintain strong client relationships through regular communication and reporting.
• Prepare cases for trial and participate in trial proceedings as required.

Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred:

• General Liability
• Premises Liability
• Construction Litigation / Labor Law
• Transportation and Trucking Defense
• Professional Liability
• Employment Litigation
• Medical Malpractice Defense
• Product Liability
• Insurance Coverage and Defense

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in the New York State Bar.
• 3+ years of defense litigation experience preferred.
• Strong legal writing, research, and oral advocacy skills.
• Experience taking and defending depositions.
• Courtroom and motion practice experience.
• Ability to manage multiple matters and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and client relationship management abilities.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary (125K-175K) commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution.
• Generous paid time off and firm holidays.
• Continuing legal education (CLE) support.
• Hybrid work flexibility and professional development opportunities.

This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney seeking hands‑on litigation experience, meaningful client interaction, and a clear path for career advancement within a respected New York City law firm.