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Insurance Defense Associate Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Litigation Associate Attorney

Tysons, VA · On-site

$95K - $150K/yr

... insurance defense work is a plus Required Qualifications: • Law degree from an ABA accredited University • Must be admitted to the Virginia State Bar • 3-5 years of experience in a law firm or ...

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Insurance Defense Associate information

See Reston, VA salary details

$27K

$69.8K

$150.3K

How much do insurance defense associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for insurance defense associate in Reston, VA is $69,821.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $81,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Insurance Defense Associates?

Insurance Defense Associates are attorneys who represent insurance companies and their policyholders in legal matters, primarily defending them against claims of liability or damages. Their work often involves litigation, negotiation, and case evaluation in areas such as personal injury, property damage, and professional liability. They review claims, assess legal risks, and develop strategies to protect their clients’ interests throughout the legal process. These associates typically work at law firms or as in-house counsel for insurance providers. Strong analytical, negotiation, and courtroom skills are crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Insurance Defense Associate vs Claims Adjuster?

AspectInsurance Defense AssociateClaims Adjuster
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), State Bar LicenseHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require licensing
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, insurance companies, corporate legal departmentsInsurance companies, third-party administrator offices
Industry UsageLegal defense for insurance companies in litigationEvaluating and settling insurance claims

Insurance Defense Associates primarily work in legal settings, defending insurance companies in litigation, often requiring a law degree and bar licensure. Claims Adjusters focus on assessing and settling claims, typically with less formal legal education. Both roles are integral to the insurance industry but serve different functions within the claims process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Insurance Defense Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Insurance Defense Associate, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and strong legal research, writing, and litigation skills. Familiarity with legal research databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and e-discovery tools is typically required. Excellent negotiation, analytical thinking, and communication skills help you effectively advocate for clients and collaborate with insurers and colleagues. These abilities are crucial for managing complex caseloads, achieving favorable outcomes, and maintaining strong client relationships in a fast-paced legal environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Insurance Defense Associates, and how can they be managed effectively?

Insurance Defense Associates often manage large caseloads with tight deadlines, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently. They must also navigate complex relationships with clients, claims professionals, and opposing counsel, balancing advocacy with professionalism. Regular communication and meticulous documentation are essential for managing expectations and ensuring successful outcomes. Proactively seeking feedback and collaborating closely with senior attorneys can help associates develop their litigation skills and handle challenges more effectively.
What job categories do people searching Insurance Defense Associate jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Insurance Defense Associate jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Insurance Defense Associate jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Insurance Defense Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Insurance Defense Associate job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,821 per year, or $33.6 per hour.
Senior Litigation Attorney - VA BARRED (Hybrid)

Senior Litigation Attorney - VA BARRED (Hybrid)

Kiernan Trebach

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$130K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Senior Litigation Attorney, VA BARRED (Hybrid)

Kiernan Trebach LLP | Washington, DC

____________________________________________________________________________

About the Firm

We are a Civil Litigation Defense Law Firm. Our mission is focused on a slow and sustainable growth process to create a diverse working environment while remaining sensitive to the needs of our employees and their families. Kiernan Trebach has become respected for our effective defense of clients ranging from Fortune 100 companies to individuals and small business owners. We take pride in knowing our clients, understanding what they want, and exceeding their expectations.

The Role

We are seeking a new Associate Attorney in Civil Litigation Defense (VA BARRED) with 10+ years of experience to join our team. Your role will be to defend a variety of Civil matters in our growing Washington, DC office.

What You Will Do

Defend a Variety of Civil Litigation Defense matters including:

  • General Liability
  • Personal Injury
  • Product Liability
  • Professional Liability
What You Will Bring

Our ideal candidate will have 8+ years of relevant experience and the following credentials/skills:

  • Juris Doctorate Degree
  • Experience with Insurance Defense clients.
  • Experience writing motions and other legal memoranda, summarizing depositions, and trial preparation.
  • The ability to work independently from suit inception to settlement/trial.
Required Education & Licensure
  • Active Virginia Bar (Required).
  • Active District of Columbia Bar or Ability to waive into DC Bar (Required).
Why You'll Love Us

At Kiernan Trebach LLP, we commit our talents and energy to continue a decades-long practice devoted to defense litigation and counseling the Firm's clients on issues that affect their potential for litigation. Kiernan Trebach represents clients on a national basis and maintains twelve offices in nine states plus the District of Columbia, with local presence in several others. Our lawyers have appeared in the courts of over 35 states and territories.

Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Life Insurance and AD&D Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Profit Sharing
  • Medical Flexible Spending Account
  • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
  • Holiday Pay
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Flexible Schedules
Equal Opportunity Statement

Kiernan Trebach LLP is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnic background, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or genetic information.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME