Lead Construction Defect Trial Attorney - Remote CA

Hartford; New York (NY); Remote; USD 132,000 - 199,000; Full time

Job summary

The Hartford is seeking a Sr Staff Attorney to join its Staff Legal team, handling sophisticated construction defect matters with occasional auto and general liability defense work. This remote role is primarily based in California with periodic in-person appearances.

Ideal candidates have strong trial experience, top-tier writing and research skills, and a proven ability to manage complex caseloads while collaborating with Claims and insured partners.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Domicile and active license to practice in California and ability to appear in applicable local state and federal courts.
• Member in good standing of the applicable Bar Association.
• 7+ years of relevant litigation experience, including construction defect and insurance defense matters.
• Documented first-chair jury trial and/or appellate experience preferred.
• Strong legal writing, research, and persuasive advocacy skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a caseload independently, prioritize competing deadlines, and exercise sound judgment.
• Strong familiarity with California courts and local practices.
• Highly organized, able to prioritize competing deadlines, and comfortable working in a technology-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage an inventory of construction defect files and related defense matters from inception through trial or resolution.
• Analyze substantive and procedural issues; conduct thorough legal research; develop defense strategies.
• Draft and respond to pleadings, discovery, motions, and briefs with minimal supervision.
• Take and defend depositions; work with experts; prepare witnesses for testimony.
• Represent clients at trials, hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and ADR proceedings.
• Provide timely, practical legal advice and liability/damages evaluations to Claims and insured partners.
• Communicate with courts, opposing counsel, witnesses, and co-counsel.
• Drive prompt, efficient disposition of cases while maintaining high quality and customer service.

Skills

Trial experience

Legal writing

Research skills

Caseload management

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

California license to practice law

Job description

The Hartford is seeking a Sr Staff Attorney to join its Staff Legal team, handling sophisticated construction defect matters with occasional auto and general liability defense work. This remote role is primarily based in California with periodic in-person appearances.

Ideal candidates have strong trial experience, top-tier writing and research skills, and a proven ability to manage complex caseloads while collaborating with Claims and insured partners.