What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Attorney position at Thenell Law Group?
Company Description Thenell Law Group is a boutique law firm with offices in Portland, Oregon, and Kennewick, Washington, focusing on representation of law enforcement professionals and insurance-related matters across Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Utah. The firm provides legal advice to insurers in SIU claims handling, examinations under oath, SIU litigation, and first-party insurance litigation, and also manages a range of third-party liability claims. We have over two years of experience in a range of insurance fraud handling in multiple Western States. We also serve as head of labor negotiations and legal defense claims for over 150 law enforcement labor groups under the umbrella of the Fraternal Order of Police for Oregon and Washington.
Role Description The Associate Attorney will work on-site full time in the Portland, OR office. Day-to-day responsibilities include legal research, drafting pleadings, motions, and coverage opinions, and assisting with examinations under oath and SIU-related matters. The role involves managing case files, participating in discovery, preparing for and attending hearings, arbitrations, and trials under supervision or as lead where appropriate. The Associate Attorney will communicate regularly with clients, claims professionals, and opposing counsel, and contribute to strategy development in first-party and third-party insurance litigation. The position offers hands-on experience in state and federal courts, with opportunities for professional growth and mentorship. Depending on qualifications, the associate may be trained to respond to Officer Involved Shootings, Police Discipline and Certification Hearings in Oregon and Washington.
Qualifications
- Licensed to practice law in Oregon (or ability to obtain Oregon licensure promptly); additional admission in Washington or Idaho is beneficial.
- Experience or strong interest in insurance coverage, SIU matters, first-party and third-party insurance litigation, and representing institutional clients.
- Proficiency in legal research and writing, including drafting motions, pleadings, discovery, and coverage opinions.
- Strong analytical, case management, and organizational skills to handle multiple matters and deadlines.
- Effective oral communication and advocacy skills for hearings, depositions, examinations under oath, and client interactions.
- Collaborative approach with the ability to work independently, take initiative, and integrate into a small-firm team environment.
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school; prior litigation, clerkship, or insurance law experience is preferred.
- Professional integrity, commitment to high-quality client service, and willingness to learn specialized insurance and SIU practice areas.