Insurance Defense Associate

Distinct | North America; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Distinct | North America in Chicago seeks a defense litigation associate with 3+ years of experience to advance its general liability docket. The role emphasizes meaningful mentorship, autonomy to manage files, and opportunities for professional development.

The successful candidate will handle depositions, draft substantive motions, and appear in court while contributing to the firm’s preeminent Chicago litigation practice.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of defense litigation experience.
• Experience taking depositions and drafting substantive motions.
• Ability to appear in court and manage files independently.

Responsibilities

• Handle general liability matters with autonomy.
• Draft pleadings, motions, and discovery materials.
• Attend hearings and depositions as needed.
• Mentor junior associates and contribute to progression planning.

Skills

Deposition experience

Motions drafting

Legal research

Oral advocacy

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Bar admission

Tools

Westlaw

LexisNexis

Case management software

Job description

Being good at handling files can get you more files. It should also get you somewhere.

I’m speaking with defense litigators whose next move needs to offer meaningful professional development.

Your background could include general liability, construction claims, product liability or professional liability. Experience taking depositions, drafting substantive motions and handling court appearances would be particularly relevant.

The useful conversation is about the details: the cases you would handle, the responsibility you would have, who you would learn from and how progression works.

We are currently representing a national litigation firm, interested in general liability attorneys with 3+ years experience. At an 1900 billable hour requirement, alongside strong mentorship and real autonomy to run with files, this is one of the preeminent litigation associate roles currently on the market in Chicago.