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Defensive Attorney Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

LHH US

Contract Litigation Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$70/hr

Contract Litigation Attorney (OR Bar Required) Portland, OR (Remote Flexibility Available) About ... Insurance defense experience is a plus but not required * Strong writing, analytical, and ...

State Farm

Trial Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site

Because our attorneys are not billed by the hour, you have the opportunity to focus on strategy and ... insurance defense or personal injury * May also consider additional experience in medical ...

LHH US

Contract Litigation Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site +1

$70/hr

Contract Litigation Attorney (OR Bar Required) Portland, OR (Remote Flexibility Available) About ... Insurance defense experience is a plus but not required * Strong writing, analytical, and ...

State Farm

Trial Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site

$140 - $202/hr

Because our attorneys are not billed by the hour, you have the opportunity to focus on strategy and ... insurance defense or personal injury * May also consider additional experience in medical ...

State Farm

Trial Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site

Because our attorneys are not billed by the hour, you have the opportunity to focus on strategy and ... insurance defense or personal injury * May also consider additional experience in medical ...

Scheer.Law PLLC

Be Seen First

Associate Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

We are looking for an attorney who can hit the ground running. The ideal candidate will have ... defense practice. * Strong organizational skills that reflect an ability to perform and prioritize ...

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All JobsDefensive Attorney JobsDefensive Attorney Jobs in Portland, OR

Defensive Attorney information

See Portland, OR salary details

$48.8K

$114.7K

$182.9K

How much do defensive attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensive attorney in Portland, OR is $114,704.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,800.00 and $137,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defensive attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defensive Attorney, you need a law degree, a license to practice, and a strong foundation in criminal or civil law, legal research, and courtroom procedures. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, case management software, and continuing legal education certifications is important. Outstanding analytical thinking, negotiation, and persuasive communication skills set successful attorneys apart. These abilities ensure effective representation of clients, strategic case management, and positive outcomes in complex legal matters.

What does a defensive attorney do?

A defensive attorney, also known as a defense attorney or defense lawyer, represents individuals or organizations accused of criminal offenses. Their primary responsibility is to protect the legal rights of their clients, provide legal counsel, and develop a defense strategy to ensure a fair trial. This includes investigating the case, negotiating plea deals, representing clients in court, and challenging evidence presented by the prosecution. Defensive attorneys play a crucial role in the justice system by ensuring that every defendant receives adequate representation and due process.

What are some common challenges a defensive attorney faces when preparing for trial?

Defensive attorneys often encounter challenges such as managing large volumes of evidence, ensuring thorough client communication, and anticipating prosecution strategies. Coordinating with investigators and expert witnesses can also be complex, requiring strong organizational and analytical skills. Additionally, balancing a high caseload while adhering to strict court deadlines is a frequent challenge, making time management and prioritization essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Defensive Attorney vs Criminal Defense Lawyer?

AspectDefensive AttorneyCriminal Defense Lawyer
CredentialsJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar licenseJurisdiction-specific law degree, bar license
Work EnvironmentCourts, law firms, private practiceCourts, law firms, private practice
Industry UsageLegal defense in criminal casesLegal defense in criminal cases
Common Search IntentDefensive Attorney vs Criminal Defense LawyerDefensive Attorney vs Criminal Defense Lawyer

Both Defensive Attorneys and Criminal Defense Lawyers are legal professionals specializing in defending clients accused of crimes. While the terms are often used interchangeably, 'Defensive Attorney' emphasizes the role of defending clients in court, whereas 'Criminal Defense Lawyer' explicitly indicates a focus on criminal cases. Both require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, serving clients within the criminal justice system.

What are popular job titles related to Defensive Attorney jobs in Portland, OR? For Defensive Attorney jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Defensive Attorney jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Defensive Attorney jobs in Portland, OR are:
Defensive Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defensive Attorney job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 67% In-person, 22% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,704 per year, or $55.1 per hour.

Insurance Coverage/Insurance Litigation Attorney

Wilson Elser - Attorneys

Portland, OR • On-site

$140K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

At Wilson Elser, we are redefining what it means to work at a national law firm. With more than 1,400 attorneys across 46 offices nationwide, we are recognized among the top 100 law firms by The American Lawyer and ranked #36 in the National Law Journal's survey of the nation's largest law firms.
Our continued success is built on a culture of collaboration, innovation, client service, and mutual respect. We are committed to fostering an environment where attorneys are empowered to grow their careers, contribute meaningfully, and thrive professionally.
Wilson Elser's Portland office is currently seeking an Insurance Coverage/Insurance Litigation Attorney to join a team of talented professionals in a collaborative, collegial environment. Our firm is committed to developing professionals who value each other and the service we provide through Teamwork, Collaboration, Client Service, and Innovation. If you are a motivated professional looking for a long-term fit, where you can grow in a role, and be valued and empowered, then we invite you to apply.
This position offers a flexible, hybrid working arrangement, or remote work opportunities.
The Position
This is an excellent opportunity for an attorney with insurance coverage and coverage litigation experience to join a collaborative group of seasoned professionals. Our coverage team handles complex matters across Oregon and throughout the U.S., representing both domestic and international insurers on a wide range of issues.
Responsibilities
  • Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, legal memoranda, and other legal documents
  • Handle discovery, depositions, mediations, and court appearances
  • Investigate claims and prepare comprehensive coverage opinion letters
  • Provide strategic coverage advice to clients on a variety of insurance lines
  • Collaborate effectively with colleagues across offices to deliver seamless client service
  • Communicate regularly with clients, providing updates and thoughtful analysis of case developments

Qualifications
  • JD from an ABA-accredited law school
  • Admitted to practice in the State of Oregon
  • 2+ years of defense litigation experience
  • 3+ years of insurance coverage and/or coverage litigation experience preferred
  • Demonstrated experience drafting coverage opinions and handling third-party and/or first-party claims
  • Strong coverage analysis and writing skills
  • Experience drafting discovery and pretrial motions required
  • Deposition, mediation, and courtroom experience preferred, trial experience a plus
  • Exceptional analytical, research, writing, and communication skills

Wilson Elser offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our attorneys both professionally and personally.
A variety of factors are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, education, licensure and/or certifications, geographic location, market demands, other business and organizational needs, and other factors permitted by law. This position is also eligible for discretionary bonuses. Final salary wages offered may be outside of this range based on other reasons and individual circumstances. This position is considered full-time and therefore qualifies for benefits including 401(k) retirement savings plan, medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.
Salary Range:
$140,000-$230,000 USD
Why Join Wilson Elser?
  • Meaningful Work: Handle sophisticated matters alongside experienced attorneys and partners
  • Collaborative Culture: Work in a supportive team environment that values mentorship and professional development
  • Advancement: Gain opportunities for long-term growth within a nationally recognized firm
  • Hybrid Flexibility: Enjoy a flexible hybrid work arrangement that supports work-life balance
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Competitive compensation, generous PTO, 401(k) match, and robust medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage
  • Additional Perks: Access to corporate discount programs and employee benefits
Wilson Elser welcomes submissions of candidates for our open positions exclusively from recruitment agencies with an active, signed fee agreement who have been granted access to a position through our dedicated Recruitment Agency Portal. We are unable to consider submissions from recruitment agencies without a current (dated as of 7/1/2024) agreement in place. We appreciate your understanding. For collaboration inquiries or to establish an agreement, please contact us at talentacquisition@wilsonelser.com.
Wilson Elser is committed to a collegial work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. It is the Firm's policy that employment will be based on merit, qualifications, and competence. Further, employment decisions will be made without regard to an applicants race, color, age, sex, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, physical or mental disability, status as a victim of domestic violence, sex offenses, or stalking, past or present service in the uniformed services or application or obligation to serve in the uniformed services, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Wilson Elser endeavors to make the Wilson Elser website accessible to any and all users. You may review our Accessibility Policy here.
California Residents may review our CCPA notice for applicants and employees here.

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