Claims Attorney I

Job Responsibilities

• Reviews and analyzes correspondence and documents submitted by claimants and Principals, interviews involved persons, and requests additional documentation.
• Documents investigation efforts in the claim file and maintains relevant file documentation within Sims file.
• Works with the Director of Claims to direct and oversee outside counsel and consultants as necessary to assist with claim investigation or salvage and indemnity aspects of claim.
• Evaluates potential sources of salvage, reimbursement, and indemnification for any loss or expense that may be paid.
• Requests recovery of loss, expenses, and costs in accordance with the terms of the Indemnity Agreement or the surety’s statutory or common law equitable rights or rights of equitable subrogation.
• If necessary, negotiates with stakeholders to resolve claims, including creating secured repayment plans, referrals to collection agencies, or pursuing indemnity actions.
• Drafts determination letters and reviews recommendations with supervisor, as required.
• Prepares documentation for payments, if approved.
• Makes decisions regarding collateral or other indemnity or subrogation rights with the assistance of the Director of Claims.
• Obtains reimbursement pursuant to agreement such as collateral trust agreements.
• Researches and consults with the Director of Claims to seek legal counsel or retain consultants as appropriate based on the merits of the claims.
• Audits outcomes and performance to assure competence.
• Reviews bills for accuracy and reasonableness.
• Authorizes payment.
• Stays abreast of claims handling requirements of corresponding jurisdictions and attends required claim and anti-fraud training.
• Reviews bond language, contracts, codes, statutes, and case law, as applicable to the claims.

Qualifications

• J.D. required plus 2-4 years of experience in the Surety, Insurance, or related industry.
• Experience investigating and adjudicating claims in the surety industry is preferred.
• Licenses to practice law in appropriate jurisdictions.

Benefits

At Merchants, we offer a flexible hybrid and remote work schedule with a 37.5-hour work week, free health insurance options, paid volunteer time off with matching gift programs, and an infants in the workplace program with family resources. For more information on our benefits, visit our careers page.