Insurance Litigation

What factors would make you leave your current role?

Billing tips? I am starting a new position and really would like to do well. Target is 190/mos to bonus

Any conferences you recommend for a 4th year associate in insurance defense? I'm interested in becoming more knowledgeable, gaining litigation experience and also networking with others in this fi… more

What's the word on Cole Scott Kissane as a company?

The constant focus on billable hours is soul-crushing. I'd happily take a pay cut to work fewer hours and have some semblance of a life. Crazy idea, or does anyone feel the same?

Client gave me a super thoughtful gift to thank me for winning their case. It's against company policy to accept gifts, but I feel terrible declining. What would you do?

Just found out a close friend works at the insurance company I frequently litigate against. Do I need to disclose this, or would that be overthinking it?

Advice on giving notice and quitting? I know it will not be received well so I’m dreading the conversation.

I think I'm becoming jaded. Used to get outraged at insurance company shenanigans, now I just expect them. Is this healthy cynicism, or am I losing my humanity?

How to turn down a job offer after an interview? I don’t want to burn the bridge but am not interested in the position.

What are your billable rates? We're Northeast, major city, at 150-175.

Thoughts on PIP defense for liberty mutual? In house is appealing as well as the remote work, but I’m concerned about the workload & work-life balance. Any insight is highly appreciated!

I have an interview with Travelers insurance, any tips? Pros and cons?

It bothers me that we bill in six-minute increments. Feels like we're nickel-and-diming clients for every email. Does anyone else find this practice questionable?

Got an unexpected job offer that pays significantly more, but the work sounds less fulfilling. Do I chase the money or stick with what I enjoy?

What is a typical salary for new NEPs at ID firms in HCOL cities?

Looking for advice: how do you go about following up with contacts after networking? I’m a baby lawyer, admitted during Covid and have very minimal networking experience. I met someone at an event who… more

Got my first ever bonus payout, and it's…disappointing. Essentially half a regular paycheck. Should I push for more, or is this just how it is in the early years?

Favorite legal podcasts?

Anyone have any insight into Luks santaniello? Hours, bonus structure, comp, benefits etc? Thanks!

Ever caught another attorney in a blatant lie, the kind that could really swing a case? Did you call them out on it, or is that career suicide?

Any children of immigrants feel like you are at a huge disadvantage due to cultural differences and that being viewed as “different “ (whether consciously or unconsciously) means no one in your firm i… more

Overheard a senior partner giving brutal advice to a new associate: "Forget work-life balance, your only goal is to bill as much as possible." Is that what success really means in this fiel… more

Ever caught another attorney in a blatant lie, the kind that could really swing a case? Did you call them out on it, or is that career suicide?

What are some good expert witness search services? I need a niche medical expert. Thanks!

On a scale of 1-10, how burnt out are you right now?

Feeling a bit disillusioned lately. The idealism I started with is fading fast. How do you stay motivated when the system seems so flawed?

Had an unexpectedly positive interaction with opposing counsel today. We were fierce adversaries in court, then grabbed a coffee after and actually had a civil conversation. Maybe there's hope for… more

Wondering what the general rates are now in GL insurance defense (non auto) for HCOL cities? When I left private practice it was between 200-275 for the most part (in 2022).

Who works more, ID or Plaintiff’s side?

Has anyone transitioned from practicing litigation/ID to being a claims representative? If so, would you recommend it?

Just realized an email I sent about case strategy ended up in the wrong inbox...and it wasn't flattering to our client. Now I'm panicking about the potential fallout. Any damage control tips?

I need to get out of private practice and go in house or to a different practice area but feel stuck. How do I make a change?

Firm is giving me my own direct support staff starting next week. Yay! Any tips on building rapport and managing expectations from the start? Thanks!

Anyone else ever have a case that haunts you? I keep replaying a closing argument in my head, wondering if I could have done something differently.

Spent my evening volunteering at a legal aid clinic. Reminded me why I got into this field in the first place. Feeling inspired, even if my main job is a bit soul-crushing sometimes. How do you redisc… more

Got a scathing email from opposing counsel for the most minor procedural mistake. Makes me feel like I'm back in law school being graded by the meanest professor ever. Do they take pleasure in bei… more

How do you deal with managerial issues? (Explained in comments)

How often are we filing motions for summary judgment? Should I make it routine to file one at the close of discovery of every case?

The sheer amount of paperwork in even a simple case is mind-boggling. Half my day is just searching for the right document. Is there a secret to organization I'm missing?