Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo LLP is seeking a motivated and talented Associate Attorney to join our established Workers’ Compensation practice in Columbia, South Carolina. This position offers the opportunity to represent employers, insurance carriers, and self-insured entities across a broad range of industries while gaining substantial hands-on litigation experience in a collaborative, client-focused environment.Associates in our Workers’ Compensation practice work closely with experienced attorneys to defend claims and advocate on behalf of clients throughout all stages of the litigation process. The successful candidate will independently manage a caseload, oversee critical deadlines, and develop effective legal strategies designed to achieve favorable outcomes for clients.Key responsibilities include conducting depositions of claimants, fact witnesses, medical providers, and expert witnesses; preparing and arguing motions; drafting legal briefs and position statements; representing clients in mediations; and preparing for and appearing at hearings before the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission. Attorneys in this role are expected to evaluate and analyze new and existing claims, investigate factual and legal issues, review and interpret medical records, and provide practical, strategic counsel to clients throughout the life of a case.The Associate Attorney will also manage all aspects of discovery, negotiate settlements, prepare comprehensive client reports, and maintain consistent communication with clients regarding litigation strategy, case developments, exposure assessments, and resolution opportunities. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and the ability to effectively manage multiple matters in a fast-paced litigation environment.Building and maintaining strong professional relationships is critical to success. The ideal candidate will collaborate with fellow Hedrick Gardner attorneys and regularly interact with insurance adjusters, risk managers, employers, claims professionals, medical experts, and opposing counsel. Strong analytical, writing, advocacy, and client service skills are essential.This position offers an outstanding opportunity to develop litigation, deposition, hearing, mediation, and negotiation skills while working alongside a highly respected team of workers’ compensation attorneys dedicated to delivering exceptional results for clients. Associates will gain meaningful responsibility, direct client interaction, and the opportunity for long-term professional growth within one of the region’s leading litigation firms.
