Associate

Ritsema Law is a law firm that represents employers and insurance carriers in various states. They are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Attorney to join their team in Fort Collins, Colorado, focusing on workers' compensation cases, legal research, and client representation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct legal research and draft legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and briefs related to workers' compensation cases
• Represent clients in workers' compensation hearings, mediations, and trials
• Manage client communications and provide legal advice regarding workers' compensation claims
• Develop case strategies and legal arguments to effectively advocate for clients
• Participate in client meetings, settlement negotiations, and administrative proceedings
• Ensure compliance with all legal standards and regulations related to workers' compensation law

Skills

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school
• Admission to the Colorado, Arizona, and/or Utah State Bar(s)
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills
• Experience with drafting and reviewing legal documents
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• High level of professionalism and ethical standards
• The appropriate candidate must be able to handle a large volume of files successfully and meet deadlines in a fast-paced professional environment
• Professional and effective communication with various clients, insurance adjusters, judges, physicians, and other various professionals as well as team members, inclusive of senior attorneys, paralegals, and staff
• Independently conduct research and analyze various case laws, rules, and statutes, including but not limited to the Colorado Workers' Compensation Act and Rules of Procedure for application and clear communication of same
• Understand and apply legal analysis to provide effective counsel to clients
• Review and analyze voluminous medical records and discovery and combine them with legal analysis, resulting in client summaries and status updates
• Assist the supervising attorney with litigation preparation and strategy by drafting written discovery requests and responses, completing document redaction, conducting potential witness interviews, and addressing other assigned tasks relevant to litigation and discovery on a case-by-case basis
• Excellent organization and prioritization skills
• Must have Juris Doctor degree. Admitted to one or more of the following: Colorado, Arizona, and/or Utah Bar(s)
• Strong legal research skills are essential for navigating complex legal issues
• Excellent oral and written communication skills are necessary for interacting with clients, insurance companies, and the court
• Strong negotiation skills are crucial for settling cases and reaching favorable outcomes for clients
• You need strong analytical skills to assess cases, gather evidence, and develop legal strategies
• Familiarity with the insurance industry and claims processes is valuable
• Proficiency in using computer software and legal research databases (like Lexis or Westlaw) is expected
• Experience with general liability defense, workers' compensation subrogation, or related fields is preferred but not required
• Experience with medical terminology and language is preferred but not required
• While not required, experience in workers' compensation law is highly beneficial

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance (2 out of 3 health plans fully paid for employees)
• Retirement savings plan with employer match
• Continuing legal education (CLE) opportunities
• Professional development opportunities
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Mentorship opportunities for newer associates
• Paid time off, paid holidays, and flexible work arrangements
• Paid garage parking with 3 days in-office
• Casual but professional work environment

Company Overview