Attorney Defense Litigation

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Defense Litigation Attorney with a minimum of 5 years of litigation experience to join our dynamic legal team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in handling complex civil litigation matters, including all phases of case management from inception through trial or settlement. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated attorney who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to providing high-quality legal representation to clients.

Responsibilities

• Manage a full caseload of civil defense litigation matters with minimal supervision
• Represent clients in all aspects of litigation, including depositions, court appearances, mediations, arbitrations, and trials
• Prepare and respond to discovery requests, draft pleadings, motions, and legal memoranda
• Conduct legal research and develop case strategies
• Analyze and assess case value and potential exposure
• Negotiate settlements and communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, and insurers
• Supervise and mentor junior attorneys or legal staff, as needed
• Maintain accurate time records and adhere to billing requirements

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
• Admitted to practice and in good standing with the (State) Bar
• Minimum 5 years of litigation experience, preferably in civil defense litigation
• Strong courtroom and deposition experience
• Excellent legal research, writing, and analytical skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and prioritize tasks efficiently
• Professional demeanor and strong advocacy, negotiation, and communication skills
• Proficiency in case management software and legal research tools

Preferred Experience

• Experience in areas such as general liability, premises liability, construction defect, personal injury, medical malpractice, or insurance defense
• Trial experience preferred
• Familiarity with billing guidelines for insurance carriers

Benefits

• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer match
• Flexible work arrangements (hybrid/remote options may be available)
• Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Professional development and continuing legal education (CLE) support

About the Firm

Congdon, Flaherty & O’Callaghan (CFO) is recognized as one of the premier litigation firms in the New York Metropolitan area. We provide clients with all appropriate options relative to settlement, trial, or alternative dispute resolution. Our clients are then put in the best position to make the correct decisions throughout the course of their lawsuit. At all stages of the legal process, we are committed to providing our clients with exceptional, efficient, and cost-effective representation, with a focus on achieving the best possible result. Founded in 1977 by Alan E. Congdon, CFO has grown substantially to a staff of 22 attorneys, 18 support professionals, and 4 skilled paralegals. Throughout our history, CFO has focused primarily on defense litigation. We work with companies in the insurance industry to handle all phases of civil and commercial litigation in both the Federal and State Courts of New York.