Lead In-House Counsel

Our client is building an in-house litigation department from the ground up. They are looking for an experienced trial attorney to lead that effort, establish the function’s operating model, and build a high-performing team capable of taking on a growing share of our Michigan litigation.

This is an opportunity for an experienced insurance defense litigator who wants the autonomy to create something: setting policies and procedures, hiring and mentoring attorneys and support staff, shaping the culture, and handling a docket alongside the team. The role is comparable in scope to a senior law firm partner building and running their own practice, with the support and perspective of an established insurance organization.

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RESPONSIBILITIES:

In-House Litigation

• Lead Counsel: Directly handle a docket of in-house litigated files while developing a dedicated in-house litigation team consisting of attorneys and support staff from the ground up.
• Managing Attorney: Mentor and develop attorneys and support staff to build out in-house litigation capabilities, providing support and guidance as well as working with Claims and Legal to develop policies and procedures governing in-house litigation.
• Strategy Development: Develop high-level litigation strategies and work directly with Claims and Legal to manage all phases of litigation from inception through final disposition.
• Triage & Assignment: Review incoming complaints designated by Legal for in-house handling and assign appropriate in-house counsel based on claim nature, defense requirements, and internal performance metrics.
• Valuation & Resolution: Work with Claims and Legal to determine settlement value or trial recommendations on a case-by-case basis, ensuring financial outcomes align with organizational risk tolerance.

Strategic Advisory & Product Development

• Executive Counsel: Provide sophisticated legal advice to senior management regarding complex legal issues, sensitive personnel matters, and high-stakes business decisions.
• Trend Analysis: Track legal trends and key developments in Michigan No-Fault laws, automobile negligence, tort reform, and wrongful death statutes.
• Product Innovation: Assist in the development of new insurance products, ensuring all policy language and structures meet the highest legal and regulatory standards as well as being responsive to observed legal trends.
• Best Practices: Advise on claims handling and "best practices" to maintain the enterprise’s reputation for integrity and excellence.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be an active member in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan. Admission to the Federal Western and Eastern Districts of Michigan a plus.
• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school with strong academic credentials.
• 5-10+ years of relevant experience specifically focused on Michigan Insurance Law with emphasis on successful, cost-effective litigation and trial of insurance matters. Successful appellate practice a plus.
• Extensive, proven knowledge of Michigan No-Fault statutes and Auto Insurance Defense litigation.
• A proven track record of handling files from beginning to end and the ability to develop talent and lead effectively
• Exceptional verbal and written skills, with the ability to translate complex legal jargon into actionable business advice for senior leadership.