Counsel, Claims Litigation

Definity is the parent company to some of Canada’s most long-standing and innovative insurance brands, including Economical Insurance, Sonnet Insurance, Family Insurance Solutions, and Petline Insurance. Our ambition is to be one of Canada’s leading and most innovative property and casualty insurers. We can’t do that without our people, so we embrace and encourage a culture that’s collaborative, ambitious, rewarding, and empowering.
We offer a flexible, hybrid work experience where employees work from the office and virtually depending on the type of work they are doing and who they are working with. Bring your true self and be a part of our journey. It’s better here.
The OpportunityWe are seeking a Claims Litigation Counsel with 2-5 years of civil litigation experience to independently manage a diverse caseload of insurance-related litigation matters. This role is responsible for handling files from inception through to resolution, including attending discoveries, mediations, motions, case conferences, hearings, trials, and appeals;
developing litigation strategies;
providing legal opinions;
negotiating settlements;
and working closely with claims professionals and external experts.
The successful candidate will have experience managing litigation matters, strong advocacy and negotiation skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and the confidence to independently carry a full caseload. Experience in insurance litigation, property damage, construction, bodily injury, accident benefits or subrogation claims is preferred.
This position offers the opportunity to serve as a trusted legal advisor to Definity’s Claims team while contributing to the successful resolution of a broad range of litigation matters.
What to ExpectIndependent carriage of tort litigation files, which includes attending at trials and appeals, contested motions, cross-examinations, examinations for discovery and mediations, preparing court documents, reviewing and analyzing evidence, interviewing witnesses, conducting out-of-court examinations/questionings, acting in mediations or other ADR, engaging and instructing medical,financial and technical experts, surveillance and other third parties supporting litigation, client reporting and providing legal opinions and devising recommended strategies, negotiating settlements and drafting settlement documents, and working with and delegating to support staff
Working with senior counsel on more complex cases, trials and hearings
Opportunity for a varied litigation practice, including carriage of bodily injury, property damage, construction, and subrogated claims, from inception through to trial
Play an advisory role to Definity’s Claims department in relation to litigation strategy and claims litigation and also contribute to Definity's Claims Litigation Unit and Claims department via presentations, initiatives and special project
What you BringThis opportunity is open to candidates in multiple locations, including Toronto, Oakville, Southwestern Ontario and Ottawa. We encourage interested applicants to apply regardless of location preference.
2-5 years of post-call experience working in civil litigation, with preference given to insurance litigation with a law firm or in-house legal provider
Hearing, trial and contested motion experience is not required but will be preferred.The ideal candidate should have a keen interest in written and oral advocacy.
Experience handling a caseload of files with primary carriage;
coordinating work on own files and senior lawyers’ files
High degree of personal ethics, integrity, and responsibility with an ability to deal with sensitive issues and safeguard confidential information
Assertiveness in practice, but reasonable and forthright
Strong verbal and written communication skills across a range of contexts
Excellent negotiation and facilitation skills
Sound judgement, with the ability to critically analyze situations, problem-solve and deal with ambiguity and have the ability to provide meaningful advice and recommendations
Confident and effective communication skills with Claims adjusters, insured clients, arbitrators, case managers
Team player, ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with colleagues, support staff and managers
Adaptable to a changing environment
Ability to perform under pressure, meet deadlines and handle conflicting priorities
Comfortable with Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Caselines and practice management systems
Law Degree from an accredited law school (LLB or Juris Doctor)
Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario to practice law as a lawyer in Ontario
This role requires clearance of a background check and disciplinary action check
Salary Range: $108,700 - $158,700
Actual salary for the role may vary depending on work location of the successful candidate and other factors including but not limited to, skills, education, experience, working conditions and the local labour market.
This position is being posted to fill an existing vacancy.
What’s in it for you?
Company share ownership program
Incentive Program - Eligible employees may participate in various incentive plans which are paid out at the discretion of the company and subject to individual and company performance.
Pension and savings programs, with company-matched RRSP contributions
Paid volunteer days and company matching on charitable donations
Educational resources, tuition assistance, and paid time off to study for exams
Focus on inclusion with employee groups, support for gender affirmation surgery, access to BIPOC counsellors, access to programs for working parents
Wellness and recognition programs
Discounts on products and services
Go ahead and expect a lot — you deserve it.
It’s better here — but don’t take our word for it. Definity was named by Great Place to Work® as one of the Best Workplaces™ in Canada for women, for youth, and for inclusion.
Our inclusive work environment welcomes diversity and supports accessibility. If you require accommodation at any time during the recruitment process, please let us know by View email address on ca.hrm.tc.
As part of Definity’s commitment to reconciliation, we acknowledge that our work, meetings, and travel take place on the lands now known as Canada, and recognize the enduring presence, wisdom, and stewardship of the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples who have long cared for these lands.
Background checksThis role requires successful clearance of background checks (including criminal checks and leadership references).
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