Civil (Personal Injury) Attorney

Description

The Garza Law Firm’s Civil Attorney is a position supporting the Personal Injury Division of the Firm. The Civil Attorney provides clients with legal advice and representation in personal injury cases, advocating for individuals who have suffered harm due to negligence or wrongful actions. This position works closely with clients, peer attorneys, and support staff to ensure thorough case preparation and effective legal strategies aimed at securing fair compensation. The role requires a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree, admission to the Tennessee State Bar, and good standing with the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility.

Requirements

Responsibilities

• Personal Injury Legal Practice: Manage assigned personal injury cases from initial client consultations through settlement negotiations or trial proceedings. Engage in extensive client interactions, including intake review and ongoing case updates. Handle all aspects of case development, including evidence gathering, negotiations with insurance companies, preparation for hearings, mediation, and, when necessary, litigation in court.
• New Potential Client Appointments: Review intake details provided by potential clients to assess case viability, explain legal options, and determine appropriate representation. Provide transparent case evaluations, discuss potential outcomes, and collaborate with the Personal Injury Support Team (Paralegals and Legal Assistants) to ensure ongoing client communication.
• Client Representation & Settlement Negotiations: Advocate for clients in negotiations with insurance companies, opposing counsel, and other involved parties to secure fair settlements. Prepare and present strong arguments for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Legal Documentation: Work with the Personal Injury Support Team to draft demand letters, settlement agreements, and legal pleadings. Clearly, logically, and effectively present legal arguments in written and oral form.
• Legal Research and Strategy: Conduct legal research, analyze case law, and develop legal strategies to strengthen client claims. Apply legal precedents and factual evidence to maximize case outcomes.
• Case Documentation & Case Management: Utilize case management software (Lead Docket and Filevine) to maintain accurate and up-to-date case records. Ensure all tasks, deadlines, and legal filings are completed in a timely manner.

Work Experience

Required:

• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 Suite applications.
• Familiarity with case and client management software, such as Filevine, Vine Sign, Law Pay, Lead Docket, and DocGen.
• 3-5 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including client interactions, settlement negotiations, and litigation support.

Preferred:

• 3 years of experience working in a small to medium-sized law firm.

Education / Certifications / Success Traits

Required:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and active licensure to practice law in the State of Tennessee, in good standing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in a professional setting.
• Experience in client advocacy, including conducting consultations, effectively communicating case value, and guiding clients through the personal injury claims process. Skilled in negotiating settlements, interpreting insurance policies, and securing fair compensation while ensuring clients understand their legal rights and options.
• Ability to professionally represent Garza Law Firm in all public and client interactions.
• Capable of managing a high-volume caseload in a fast-paced legal environment.
• Willingness to travel periodically to various counties for legal hearings.
• Ensure Accountability: Takes full responsibility for work and firm performance, upholding commitments and demonstrating ownership without shifting blame.
• Client Focus: Proactively understands and meets client needs, identifying opportunities to add value and exceed expectations.
• Situational Adaptability: Maintains professionalism and resilience under pressure, effectively handling change and challenges with a positive attitude.
• Action Oriented: Takes initiative in addressing challenges, promptly seizing opportunities, and confidently managing difficult legal issues.

Preferred:

• Bar admission in additional states surrounding Tennessee, such as Kentucky, North Carolina, or Virginia.
• Conversational fluency in Spanish.