Defense Litigation Attorney - General Liability

Wilson Elser - Attorneys; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Generous PTO

Corporate discount programs

Job summary

Wilson Elser - Attorneys is seeking a skilled Defense Litigation Attorney for their Portland office. This role involves managing a diverse litigation caseload, providing direct client interaction, and offering growth opportunities in a recognized national law firm.

The ideal candidate will have 2–8 years of experience in various bodily injury litigation matters with a focus on client service and collaboration. A flexible hybrid working arrangement is offered along with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 2–8 years of litigation experience, preferably in civil defense matters.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple matters effectively.
• Familiarity with legal project management and litigation technology is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Independently manage a diverse litigation caseload from inception through resolution.
• Handle all aspects of litigation, from case inception through trial.
• Develop and implement case strategies that align with client objectives.

Skills

Analytical skills

Writing skills

Advocacy skills

Interpersonal skills

Client communication

Education

Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school

Licensed and in good standing to practice law in Oregon

Job description

At Wilson Elser , we are redefining what it means to work at a national law firm. With more than 1,400 attorneys across 46 offices nationwide, we are recognized among the top 100 law firms by The American Lawyer and ranked #36 in the National Law Journal’s survey of the nation’s largest law firms.

Our continued success is built on a culture of collaboration, innovation, client service, and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering an environment where attorneys are empowered to grow their careers, contribute meaningfully, and thrive professionally.

Our firm is committed to attracting and retaining professionals who value each other and the service we provide by embracing Teamwork, Collaboration, Client Service, and Innovation. If you are a motivated professional looking for a long‑term fit where you can grow in a role, and will be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply to our Defense Litigation Attorney position in our Portland Office.

This position offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement.

The Position

We are seeking a skilled Defense Litigation Attorney to join our growing practice. The ideal candidate will have experience defending a variety of bodily injury litigation matters, including general liability, premises liability, construction, product liability, premises security, and auto/transportation with a focus on the gig economy. This role offers meaningful hands‑on litigation experience, direct client interaction, and the opportunity to manage cases with increasing responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently manage a diverse litigation caseload from inception through resolution.
• Work collaboratively with partners, associates, and support staff in a team‑oriented environment.
• Handle all aspects of litigation, from inception of the case through trial.
• Develop and implement case strategies that align with client objectives and litigation goals.
• Maintain regular communication with clients, providing timely case updates, analysis, and recommendations.
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, briefs, and other litigation‑related documents.
• Evaluate liability and damages issues and assist in negotiating settlements when appropriate.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA‑accredited law school.
• Licensed and in good standing to practice law in Oregon.
• 2–8 years of litigation experience, preferably in general liability, premises liability, personal injury, product liability, premises security, auto/transportation, gig‑economy or other civil defense matters.
• Strong analytical, writing, advocacy, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to proactively manage multiple matters effectively and meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience handling client communications and developing strong client relationships.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team culture.
• Trial, arbitration, and mediation experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with legal project management and litigation technology is preferred.

Wilson Elser offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our attorneys both professionally and personally.

A variety of factors are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, education, licensure and/or certifications, geographic location, market demands, other business and organizational needs, and other factors permitted by law. This position is also eligible for discretionary bonuses. Final salary wages offered may be outside of this range based on other reasons and individual circumstances. This position is considered full‑time and therefore qualifies for benefits including 401(k) retirement savings plan, medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

Salary Range:

$140,000 - $190,000 USD

Why Join Wilson Elser?

• Meaningful Work: Handle sophisticated matters alongside experienced attorneys and partners
• Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive team environment that values mentorship and professional development
• Advancement: Gain opportunities for long‑term growth within a nationally recognized firm
• Hybrid Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible hybrid work arrangement that supports work‑life balance
• Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, generous PTO, 401(k) match, and robust medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
• Additional Perks: Access to corporate discount programs and employee benefits

Equal Employment Opportunity

Wilson Elser is committed to a collegial work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. It is the Firm's policy that employment will be based on merit, qualifications, and competence. Further, employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicant's race, color, age, sex, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, physical or mental disability, status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, stalking, past or present service in the uniformed services or application or obligation to serve in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected by law.