About the position
As a Licensed Trial Attorney at James T. Shott & Associates, the insurance staff counsel for State Farm Insurance companies, you will be joining a dynamic and passionate team dedicated to providing exceptional legal services in the insurance and financial services industry. This position is based in Costa Mesa, CA, where you will engage in a busy civil trial practice primarily focused on insurance defense cases. We are looking for candidates with a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and an active bar membership in California, along with 3 to 15 years of civil litigation experience. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in civil procedure, evidence, and trial procedures, and a proven track record of handling jury trials. In this role, you will manage a caseload of civil litigation matters, conducting legal research, drafting pleadings, motions, and legal memoranda. You will prepare for and attend court hearings, depositions, mediations, and trials, collaborating with clients, expert witnesses, and opposing counsel to develop effective case strategies. Providing legal advice and guidance to clients regarding insurance coverage and liability issues will also be a key responsibility. Staying informed about changes in laws, regulations, and industry practices is essential to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. At State Farm, we pride ourselves on fostering a congenial, team-oriented, and professional work environment supported by skilled staff. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that our workforce is engaged and reflects the strengths and talents of all associates. We offer competitive benefits and pay, with the potential for an annual financial award based on individual and enterprise performance. Our employees are encouraged to participate in community volunteer events and engage in a culture of continuous learning, with programs available for tuition reimbursement, professional designations, and wellness initiatives.
Responsibilities
- Handle a caseload of civil litigation matters, primarily focusing on insurance defense cases.
- Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, motions, and legal memoranda.
- Prepare for and attend court hearings, depositions, mediations, and trials.
- Collaborate with clients, expert witnesses, and opposing counsel to build strong case strategies.
- Provide legal advice and guidance to clients regarding insurance coverage and liability issues.
- Stay up-to-date with changes in laws, regulations, and industry practices.
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and active bar membership in California.
- 3-15 years of civil litigation experience, with a strong background in insurance defense.
- Exceptional knowledge of civil procedure, evidence, and trial procedures.
- Proven experience in handling jury trials.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Proficiency in legal research tools and software.
Benefits
- Competitive salary range of $110,550 - $184,800
- Potential yearly incentive up to 16% of base salary
- Tuition reimbursement programs
- Professional designations support
- Employee development opportunities
- Wellness initiatives
- Participation in community volunteer events
