Contract-to-Hire Attorney - Healthcare Litigation Defense

Location: Denver, Colorado

Position Overview

An established Denver-based legal practice focused on representing healthcare professionals and medical organizations seeks an experienced Litigation Associate to join its growing team. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with a strong litigation background who enjoys handling complex matters, developing case strategy, and advocating for clients throughout all phases of the dispute process.

The successful candidate will independently manage a diverse caseload while collaborating with senior attorneys, healthcare experts, and insurance professionals. Candidates should possess excellent analytical abilities, strong written and oral communication skills, and a commitment to delivering exceptional client service.

This position is based in Denver and requires regular in-office attendance. Hybrid schedule once up and running.

Primary Responsibilities

Litigation & Case Management

• Handle a portfolio of litigation matters from initial investigation through resolution, trial, and post-trial proceedings.
• Develop legal strategies tailored to the unique facts and circumstances of each case.
• Evaluate liability, damages, and risk exposure while identifying opportunities for early resolution.

Medical Record Review & Analysis

• Examine detailed clinical records, treatment histories, and healthcare documentation.
• Interpret complex medical information to support legal arguments and defense strategies.
• Collaborate with clients and consultants to understand key medical and factual issues.

Discovery & Depositions

• Prepare and respond to written discovery requests.
• Take and defend depositions involving parties, healthcare providers, fact witnesses, and expert witnesses.
• Analyze testimony and discovery materials to strengthen case positioning.

Motion Practice & Legal Research

• Conduct legal research on procedural and substantive issues.
• Draft persuasive motions, briefs, memoranda, and other court filings.
• Present oral arguments in state courts and administrative proceedings.

Expert Witness Coordination

• Identify, retain, and work closely with medical experts across multiple specialties.
• Prepare expert witnesses for deposition and trial testimony.
• Evaluate expert opinions relating to standards of care, causation, and damages.

Trial Preparation & Advocacy

• Assist in all phases of trial preparation, including witness preparation, exhibit management, jury instructions, and trial strategy.
• Participate as second-chair trial counsel when appropriate.
• Support case presentation through effective examination of witnesses and evidentiary preparation.

Client Communication

• Maintain consistent communication with healthcare professionals, healthcare entities, and insurance representatives.
• Provide timely case assessments, litigation updates, and strategic recommendations.
• Foster strong client relationships through responsiveness and professional service.

Qualifications

Required

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
• Active license and good standing with the Colorado Bar.
• Minimum of three years of litigation experience.
• Strong legal research, analytical, and writing abilities.
• Excellent verbal communication and courtroom advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet demanding deadlines.
• High level of professionalism, organization, and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred

• Experience in healthcare-related litigation, insurance defense, professional liability defense, or personal injury matters.
• Familiarity with litigation management systems, document management platforms, and billing software.
• Ability to quickly learn and understand complex medical and scientific concepts.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $145,000-$155,000, commensurate with experience.
• Medical, dental, and wellness benefits.
• 401(k) plan with employer contribution.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities, including structured incentives tied to productivity and results.
• Supportive and collaborative professional environment.
• Opportunity for a hybrid work arrangement after successful completion of an initial onboarding period, based on performance and business needs.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.