Claims Legal Counsel

Come join our Property and Casualty Insurance Defence In‑house Legal team of over 200 employees across 5 offices, including Toronto, Mississauga, Aurora, Ottawa, and Calgary. Independently carry a case load of litigation files, from start to finish, involving the defence of auto claims, accident benefits, bodily injury, commercial lines, property, subrogation, and coverage work. We will support your career as a lawyer by making your engagement and happiness a priority. Your growth and success are key - you will be paired with a leader who is directly invested in your personal and professional development and your distinct career goals. You will never be alone - teamwork and collaboration are essential to what we do. Your efforts and achievements will be valued and celebrated by management and your peers. We are committed to creating an environment where you can be your best self! You don’t work at Desjardins. You grow with Desjardins. We don’t offer you a job, we offer you job satisfaction! At Desjardins, work life balance is not just a concept – it is honoured and encouraged.

Responsibilities

• You’re skilled at independently carrying a case load of files, from start to finish.

• You’re able to provide assessments to our claims partners on liability and quantum of damages.

• You excel at drafting opinions, pleadings, and motions.

• You enjoy conducting Examinations for Discovery.

• You take charge when attending case‑conferences, Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT) hearings/arbitrations as well as Court for motions, pre‑trials and trials.

• You are passionate and interested in sharing and contributing to the growth of legal knowledge with your colleagues.

• You strive to be part of a team that focuses on and delivers exceptional client experience and superior legal services.

What we offer

• Competitive salary and annual bonus.

• 4 weeks of flexible vacation starting in the first year.

• Defined benefit pension plan that provides predictable, stable income throughout retirement.

• Group insurance including telemedicine.

• Reimbursement of health and wellness expenses and telework equipment.

Benefits apply based on eligibility criteria.

Desired Attributes

Action oriented, Collaborates, Customer Focus, Differences, Interpersonal Savvy, Nimble learning, Persuades, Plans and aligns.

What you bring to the table

• Bachelor's degree in law, Juris Doctor or in a related field.

• A minimum of seven years of relevant experience, including proven experience in the field of insurance defence.

• Please note that other combinations of qualifications and relevant experience may be considered.

• Experience with trials and/or arbitrations.

• Experience with Accident Benefits and Bodily Injury.

• Member in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.

Trade Union (If applicable)

At Desjardins, we believe in equity, diversity and inclusion. We're committed to welcoming, respecting and valuing people for who they are as individuals, learning from their differences, embracing their uniqueness, and providing a positive workplace for all. At Desjardins, we have zero tolerance for discrimination of any kind. We believe our teams should reflect the diversity of the members, clients and communities we serve.

If there's something we can do to help make the recruitment process or the job you're applying for more accessible, let us know. We can provide accommodations at any stage in the recruitment process. Just ask!

Job Family

Legal Affairs (FG)