Executive Trial Attorney - NJ (Hybrid)

At Selective, we don't just insure uniquely, we employ uniqueness.

Selective is a midsized U.S. domestic property and casualty insurance company with a history of strong, consistent financial performance for nearly 100 years. Selective's unique position as both a leading insurance group and an employer of choice is recognized in a wide variety of awards and honors, including listing in Forbes Best Midsize Employers in 2025 and certification as a Great Place to Work® in 2025 for the sixth consecutive year.

Employees are empowered and encouraged to Be Uniquely You by being their true, unique selves and contributing their diverse talents, experiences, and perspectives to our shared success. Together, we are a high-performing team working to serve our customers responsibly by helping to mitigate loss, keep them safe, and restore their lives and businesses after an insured loss occurs.

Selective Insurance is seeking an Executive Trial Attorney for either our Hamilton, Roseland or Marlton, NJ Staff Counsel Office.

Provides legal representation to insured’s of the Company in defense of litigated claims. Provides advice to the claims department of the Company, other Staff Counsel attorneys, and represents the Company in complex litigated matters. Matters assigned for defense are the most complex, and/or have highest exposures. All job duties and responsibilities must be carried out in compliance with applicable legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements.

The successful candidate will manage a litigation caseload that is tailored to their background and experience. The office handles a broad range of civil defense matters that include commercial general liability, automobile liability, and construction defect cases. Candidates with substantial experience in any of these practice areas are encouraged to apply. Cases will be assigned consistent with the attorney’s demonstrated expertise and may expand over time as the attorney develops additional experience within the practice.

• Prepares and tries complex, high exposure cases to conclusion before judges, juries and other triers of fact (possibly in multiple jurisdictions). Participates in Alternative Dispute Resolution of complex cases which are not earmarked for trial.
• Dictates/prepares pleadings, motions, briefs, letters, memoranda, reports, articles, etc. using the Company’s legal case management software, dictation and voice recognition equipment.
• Communicates with, meets and regularly updates the client and claims personnel regarding the status of pending matters. Communicates with opposing counsel, the courts and others as needed, efficiently and effectively utilizing all available technology.
• Researches issues using Westlaw, and other computer/web based data sources, as well as using legal treatises, law reporters and other library materials.
• Provides support services to claims, underwriting and other adjunct departments in the form of legal opinions, recommendations, and digests of recent developments in decisional and statutory law.
• Controls and directs clerical activity, in accordance with office protocol, necessary to support function of position.
• Reports to managing attorney concerning status of matters and provides other information as requested. Acts as a resource for attorneys throughout the program on technical legal matters.
• Engages in various forms of paper discovery practice and conducts depositions and other pre-trial examinations. Proficient in high stakes and adversarial drafting and document creation.
• Travels to depositions, court appearances, claims and client meetings, and other events as necessary. Car travel represents approximately 20% of employee’s time.
• Engages in other activity as directed by the managing attorney.
• Independently represents Selective insureds in all phases of litigation in courts of the relevant jurisdiction as well as other tribunals and alternative dispute resolution forums.
• Provide pre-suit investigative assistance when required. Case load will be smaller to accommodate supervisory responsibilities.
• Analyzes complex legal and factual issues, conducts legal research, and independently develops and advances defense strategies on behalf of the Insured. Communicates with the Court, witnesses, opposing counsel, and clients in a manner consistent with established office procedures and the Code of Professional Conduct.
• Oversees the work of assigned Senior and Trial Attorneys and provides supervisory guidance to support their activities
• Prepares pleadings, written discovery, motions, and briefs in support of defense strategies. Prepares for, attends, and handles all activities related to full trials and/or appeals, as assigned.
• Responsible for the strategic, efficient, and effective disposition of assigned cases. Travels to depositions, court appearances, claims, client meetings, and other events as necessary. Car travel represents approximately 20% of employees’ time.
• Assists the Managing Attorney with implementing office procedures, workflows and policies.
• Assist with developing and presenting training materials and seminars to the Claim Department.
• Performs all other functionally related duties as assigned by the Managing Attorney.

Knowledge and Requirements

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, Explorer or similar required.
• Typing skill required. Legal case management software experience preferred.
• Excellent customer service, writing and oral communication skills required.
• Must have valid state-issued driver’s license in good standing.

Education and Experience

• Juris Doctor from ABA accredited law school required.
• Member in good standing of the Bar of New Jersey required.
• At least 15 years legal experience in the jurisdiction required.
• Trial of at least 15 matters to conclusion preferred.
• Management experience is preferred.

Selective Insurance offers a total rewards package that includes a competitive base salary, incentive plan eligibility at all levels, and a wide array of benefits designed to help you and your family stay healthy, achieve your financial goals, and balance the demands of your work and personal life. These benefits include comprehensive health care plans, retirement savings plan with company match, discounted Employee Stock Purchase Program, tuition assistance and reimbursement programs, and 20 days of paid time off. Additional details about our total rewards package can be found by visiting our benefits page.

The actual base salary is based on geographic location, and the range is representative of salaries for this role throughout Selective's footprint. Additional considerations include relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, performance, and business needs.

USD $163,000.00 - USD $211,000.00 /Yr.

Selective is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. That means we respect and value every individual’s unique opinions, beliefs, abilities, and perspectives. We are committed to promoting a welcoming culture that celebrates diverse talent, individual identity, different points of view and experiences – and empowers employees to contribute new ideas that support our continued and growing success. Building a highly engaged team is one of our core strategic imperatives, which we believe is enhanced by diversity, equity, and inclusion. We expect and encourage all employees and all of our business partners to embrace, practice, and monitor the attitudes, values, and goals of acceptance; address biases; and foster diversity of viewpoints and opinions.

For Massachusetts Applicants

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.