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Defense Paralegal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paralegal

Los Angeles, CA ยท Hybrid

$90K/yr

Overview The Los Angeles, CA office of Lewis Brisbois is seeking an experienced Medical Malpractice / Long-Term Care Defense Paralegal to support a sophisticated, high-volume defense practice. This ...

Paralegal

Los Angeles, CA ยท Hybrid

$75K - $90K/yr

The Los Angeles, CA office of Lewis Brisbois is seeking an experienced Medical Malpractice / Long-Term Care Defense Paralegal to support a sophisticated, high-volume defense practice. This role ...

Paralegal

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Overview The Los Angeles, CA office of Lewis Brisbois is seeking an experienced Medical Malpractice / Long-Term Care Defense Paralegal to support a sophisticated, high-volume defense practice. This ...

Paralegal

New York, NY ยท On-site

$65K - $99K/yr

About the Firm Callahan & Fusco is a regional insurance defense firm handling matters across the ... Paralegals are not assigned to a single attorney. You will work across multiple attorneys, matters ...

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Paralegal

Hartford, CT ยท Remote

$65K - $99K/yr

About the Firm Callahan & Fusco is a regional insurance defense firm handling matters across the ... Paralegals are not assigned to a single attorney. You will work across multiple attorneys, matters ...

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Paralegal

West Orange, NJ ยท On-site

$65K - $99K/yr

About the Firm Callahan & Fusco is a regional insurance defense firm handling matters across the ... Paralegals are not assigned to a single attorney. You will work across multiple attorneys, matters ...

Showing results 41-60

Defense Paralegal information

See salary details

$33.5K

$71.4K

$108.5K

How much do defense paralegal jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense paralegal in the United States is $71,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Defense Paralegal vs Litigation Paralegal?

AspectDefense ParalegalLitigation Paralegal
CredentialsParalegal certificate or degree, possibly specialized in criminal or defense lawParalegal certificate or degree, often with civil litigation focus
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, government agencies, or defense attorneys handling criminal or defense casesLaw firms, courts, or civil litigation departments
Employer & IndustryLegal defense teams, criminal law firms, government defense officesCivil law firms, courts, or civil litigation departments
Common Search & ComparisonDefense Paralegal vs Litigation Paralegal

Defense Paralegals primarily support criminal defense teams, focusing on criminal law cases, while Litigation Paralegals assist with civil lawsuits. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in case types and work environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit within the legal field.

What do defense paralegals do?

Defense paralegals assist attorneys in criminal defense cases by conducting legal research, preparing documents, organizing case files, and managing discovery. They often review evidence, draft reports, and communicate with clients and witnesses under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense paralegal?

To thrive as a Defense Paralegal, you need a solid understanding of legal procedures, research, and documentation, typically supported by a paralegal certificate or associate's degree in paralegal studies. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, case management software, and e-discovery tools is essential. Exceptional attention to detail, organization, and strong written and verbal communication skills make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure accurate case preparation, efficient workflow, and effective support for defense attorneys in high-stakes legal environments.

What is a defense paralegal?

Defense paralegals are legal professionals who assist defense attorneys in preparing cases, primarily for the defense side in criminal or civil litigation. Their responsibilities include conducting legal research, organizing documents and evidence, drafting legal documents, managing case files, and communicating with clients and witnesses. They play a vital role in ensuring that the defense team is well-prepared for court proceedings, hearings, and trials. Defense paralegals must have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of legal procedures and terminology.

What are some common challenges faced by defense paralegals when managing case files and evidence?

Defense paralegals often handle large volumes of case files and evidence, which can be challenging to organize and track efficiently. They must ensure that all documents are accurately cataloged, secure, and easily accessible for attorneys, while also maintaining strict confidentiality. Balancing tight deadlines, responding to discovery requests, and keeping up with court filings require strong organizational and multitasking skills. Additionally, defense paralegals regularly coordinate with law enforcement, expert witnesses, and clients, making clear communication and attention to detail crucial for success.
More about Defense Paralegal jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Paralegal jobs? Cities with the most Defense Paralegal job openings:
What states have the most Defense Paralegal jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Paralegal jobs include:
Infographic showing various Defense Paralegal job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,376 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Workers Compensation Defense Paralegal - R2711

Fort Myer Construction

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION
Summary:
The Workers' Compensation Defense Paralegal supports the company's legal and risk management team in defending workers' compensation claims filed against the company across the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV). This position works closely with insurance adjusters, third party administrators (TPAs), independent medical examination (IME) providers, and defense counsel to manage claims from first report of injury through resolution. The role requires fluency in English and Spanish, current paralegal certification, strong knowledge of workers' compensation law, and the ability to manage strict statutory deadlines across multiple jurisdictions. This is a safety-sensitive position due to its role in claims involving workplace injuries, return-to-work coordination, and compliance with occupational safety and workers' compensation regulations.
Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Review and respond to workers' compensation claims filed against the company in DC, Maryland, and Virginia, in coordination with defense counsel.
  • Coordinate with insurance adjusters, third party administrators, nurse case managers, and independent medical examination (IME) doctors to manage the claims process.
  • Draft denials, answers, and other defense pleadings and correspondence in accordance with DC, MD, and VA workers' compensation statutes and procedures.
  • Track and comply with strict statutory response deadlines and filing requirements across all three jurisdictions.
  • Manage subrogation and lien resolution matters, including identifying recovery opportunities and coordinating with carriers and counsel.
  • Communicate with injured employees, supervisors, medical providers, insurance carriers/TPAs, and defense counsel in both English and Spanish.
  • Prepare and translate claims correspondence, forms, and legal notices for Spanish-speaking employees.
  • Investigate claim details by gathering information from employees, supervisors, and witnesses.
  • Coordinate medical treatment authorizations, return-to-work plans, and light-duty accommodations in support of claim resolution.
  • Maintain accurate, well-organized case files and documentation in compliance with company standards and applicable regulations.
  • Assist attorneys with hearing and deposition preparation, including gathering medical records, witness statements, and other evidence.
  • Monitor claim activity and proactively support timely resolution of open claims.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements:

  • Fluency in English and Spanish, both verbal and written, required.
  • Current paralegal certificate required.
  • Minimum three years of workers' compensation experience required.
  • Experience on the defense side strongly preferred.
  • Experience in the construction industry strongly preferred.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) and claims management systems.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and customer service skills, with strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound, professional judgment.
  • Experience working with insurance carriers, TPAs, medical providers, and legal representatives preferred.
    Note: This is an on-site position and requires the ability to work in the office during standard business hours.
    Safety-Sensitive Designation:
    This position is designated as safety-sensitive due to its direct involvement in workplace injury claims, return-to-work decisions, and compliance with occupational safety and workers' compensation requirements. As such, this position is subject to pre-employment, random, reasonable-suspicion, and post-incident drug and alcohol testing in accordance with company policy and applicable law.

Working Conditions:

  • In-person with prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Finger dexterity for extensive amounts of typing.
  • Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds at a time.
  • This job requires the ability to see, whether naturally or with vision correction tools (glasses, contacts).

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and fully subscribe to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity. Applicants and/or employees are considered for hire, promotion, training opportunities, and work assignments, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by federal or local laws.


Disclaimer:
The information provided in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents within this job. It is not designed to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and working conditions required of employees assigned to this job. Management has discretion to add or modify job duties of the job and to designate other functions as essential at any time.