Claims Attorney II - Contract Surety

Job Responsibilities

• Reviews and analyzes correspondence and documents submitted by claimants and Principals.
• Interviews involved persons and requests additional documentation to determine exposure.
• Documents investigation efforts in claim file and maintains relevant file documentation.
• Directs and oversees outside counsel and consultants as necessary for claim investigation or salvage and indemnity aspects.
• Evaluates potential sources of salvage, reimbursement, and indemnification for any loss or expense.
• Requests recovery of loss, expenses, and costs in accordance with applicable agreements or laws.
• Negotiates directly with stakeholders to resolve bond and indemnity claims, including creating secured repayment plans and pursuing indemnity actions.
• Develops and implements strategies for handling assigned claims.
• Drafts reasoned determination letters and reviews recommendations with supervisor.
• Prepares documentation for payments if approved.
• Makes decisions regarding collateral or other indemnity or subrogation rights.
• Coordinates with Accounting on large losses or establishing cash collateral accounts.
• Obtains reimbursement pursuant to agreements, such as collateral trust agreements.
• Audits journal entries periodically for accuracy.
• Makes reserve recommendations and posts reserves.
• Conducts review of entire Principal account, involving Underwriters and Agents as appropriate.
• Prepares correspondence and documents for claimants, Principals, or third parties.
• Drafts and delivers internal presentations and participates in learning opportunities.
• Researches and consults legal counsel or consultants as needed.
• Audits outcomes and performance to ensure competence.
• Reviews bills for accuracy and reasonableness.
• Authorizes payment.
• Stays abreast of claims handling requirements and attends required training.
• Analyzes bond language, contracts, codes, statutes, and case law as applicable.
• Assists underwriters, principals, and agents with legal or claim questions on active accounts.
• Periodically researches and provides recommendations on general legal issues for MBC departments.
• Analyze financial statements of contractor businesses.

Qualifications

• J.D. required with 5+ years of experience in the Surety, Insurance, or related industry.
• Experience investigating and adjudicating claims in the surety industry is strongly preferred.
• Licenses to practice law in appropriate jurisdictions.
• Must acquire an adjuster’s license in every state where a license is required within the first 90 days of employment and maintain it.

About the Role

The Claims Attorney II position is responsible for independently investigating and adjusting complex claims made on contract surety bonds, communicating with various stakeholders, performing pre-default work, and pursuing appropriate salvage and indemnity. This role coordinates payment of loss and expense checks, sets and revises reserves, prepares closing file documentation, and provides account-specific and general legal assistance to underwriters and agents. The Claims Attorney II must stay current on applicable State and Federal laws and regulations that apply to handling bond claims.

Benefits

At Merchants Bonding Company, we offer a wide range of benefits designed to help achieve a healthy work-life balance and support personal and professional growth. These include:

• Flexible hybrid and remote opportunities with a 37.5-hour work week.
• Free health insurance option.
• Paid volunteer time off with matching gift program.
• Infants in the Workplace Program with family resources.

For more information, visit: https://www.merchantsbonding.com/careers#Benefits.

About Merchants

Nearly a century ago, Merchants Bonding Company focused almost exclusively on surety, delivering common sense underwriting and first-class experiences to agents, accounts, and associates across the country. Merchants stands apart from multi-line carriers by offering deep surety expertise, a flexible approach, and strong financials that instill confidence and foster lasting partnerships. Our people-first culture is built on collaboration, inclusion, and shared success. We’re committed to helping associates grow through real opportunities for advancement, while supporting a sense of belonging. If you’re looking to join a company that values your unique perspective, encourages new ideas, and invests in your development, apply today!