Chartwell is seeking a junior to midlevel associate to join its Portland/Vancouver based insurance defense practice. The defense group practices throughout Oregon and Washington. The role requires exceptional research and drafting skills, along with the ability to collaborate closely with partners and clients in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate demonstrates independence, strong communication, and a commitment to meeting a 1,950-hour annual billable requirement. Chartwell is known for its supportive culture, flexible remote or hybrid options, and emphasis on long-term relationships.

Primary Job Duties:

• Defend insureds in a wide variety of litigation matters, including general liability, personal injury, property damage, and commercial disputes.
• Manage all parts of litigated case, including pleadings, discovery, motion practice, depositions, hearings, mediations, and trials
• Extensive legal research and drafting of briefs, memos, and pleadings
• Represent clients in court and in depositions.
• Collaborate closely with partners and clients to deliver timely coverage advice.
• Manage deadlines and assignments with a high level of ownership and independence.

Key Competencies:

• Provide strategic case analysis, risk assessment, and guidance directly to clients.
• Collaborate well with partners and colleagues to deliver high-quality legal representation.
• Supervise support staff as needed.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain client relationships.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Other Duties 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

• A Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Active license to practice law in Oregon and/or Washington.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience preferred.
• Experience with depositions and mediations; trial experience a plus but not required.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Professional demeanor with strong client-relations and communication skills.
• Must be responsive and organized, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks at the same time.