Workers' Compensation Defense Associate Attorney

gpac; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

401(k) with match

PTO

Job summary

gpac LLC. is seeking an Associate Attorney in Illinois with experience in Workers' Compensation Defense to join a growing defense practice. The role focuses on defending employers and insurers before the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission (IWCC).

The attorney will take ownership of cases, work directly with clients, and contribute to an established practice with opportunities for professional growth and advancement. A strong IWCC background and client-service orientation are essential.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of Workers' Compensation Defense experience recommended.
• Experience handling claims before the IWCC and defending employers/insurers.
• Strong negotiation and legal writing skills; ability to manage an active caseload.

Responsibilities

• Defend employers and insurance carriers in Illinois Workers' Compensation claims.
• Manage Workers' Compensation cases from initial evaluation through resolution.
• Represent clients in IWCC proceedings.
• Handle depositions, arbitrations, hearings, and settlement negotiations.
• Evaluate medical records, causation, and exposure; develop defense strategies.
• Prepare pleadings, motions, settlement contracts, and other documents.
• Maintain regular communication with insurance carriers, employers, and claims professionals.

Skills

Workers' Comp defense experience

Illinois law understanding

Negotiation

Legal writing

Education

Licensed to practice law in Illinois

Job description

A well-established Illinois defense litigation firm is seeking an Associate Attorney with experience in Workers' Compensation Defense to join its growing practice.

This position is specifically focused on defending employers and insurance carriers in Workers' Compensation matters before the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission (IWCC).

We are looking for an attorney with substantive Workers' Compensation experience who can take ownership of cases, work directly with clients, and contribute to an established defense practice.

Responsibilities

• Defend employers and insurance carriers in Illinois Workers' Compensation claims.
• Manage Workers' Compensation cases from initial evaluation through resolution.
• Represent clients in proceedings before the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission.
• Handle depositions, arbitrations, hearings, and settlement negotiations.
• Evaluate medical records, causation, compensability, permanency, and exposure.
• Develop defense strategies and provide recommendations to clients and adjusters.
• Prepare pleadings, motions, settlement contracts, and other necessary legal documents.
• Maintain regular communication with insurance carriers, employers, and claims professionals.

Qualifications

• Licensed to practice law in Illinois.
• 2+ years prior Workers' Compensation Defense experience strongly preferred.
• Experience handling claims before the IWCC.
• Understanding of Illinois Workers' Compensation law, procedures, and claim evaluation.
• Strong negotiation, legal writing, and case management skills.
• Ability to independently manage an active caseload.
• Excellent communication and client service skills.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
• 1,950 annual billable-hour requirement.
• Additional bonus compensation for exceeding billable expectations.
• Health, dental, and medical insurance with 70% of premiums paid by the firm.
• 401(k) eligibility after 160 hours of service.
• Employer match of 38% on the first 6% of employee deferrals.
• Additional 3% Safe Harbor/Profit Sharing contribution regardless of participation.
• Generous, front-loaded PTO plan.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

This is an opportunity for an attorney who wants to build their career specifically in Workers' Compensation Defense while benefiting from an established practice, consistent work, and a competitive compensation and benefits structure.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.