QME Deposition Associate Attorney

Job Description

Position Summary

The QME Deposition Associate represents the firm's clients by preparing for and personally conducting Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) depositions in workers' compensation cases. This role is responsible for reviewing case files ahead of scheduled depositions to identify opportunities for resolution prior to deposition, preparing deposition strategy and questions, and appearing at and conducting QME depositions — both applicant-set and defense-set — to develop the record and advance the client's position. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, and comfortable working independently under deadline pressure in a fast-paced workers' compensation litigation environment.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Deposition Case Review

• Review assigned case files in advance of each scheduled QME deposition to assess case status, medical-legal issues, and litigation posture.
• Evaluate whether resolution (settlement, stipulation) is achievable prior to the deposition date, and discuss viable cases with the adjuster or client.
• Communicate with attorneys, adjusters, and opposing counsel to explore early resolution options and confirm whether a deposition can be avoided, continued, or must proceed.
• Document case review findings and resolution recommendations in the case management system.

Deposition Preparation

• Review the case file in depth prior to the QME deposition, including claim history, prior medical treatment records, and the QME/AME report(s), to identify key factual and medical issues.
• Analyze the QME report(s) for internal inconsistencies, gaps, causation issues, apportionment concerns, or areas that need clarification through testimony.
• Identify disputed issues (e.g., AOE/COE, body parts, permanent disability, need for further treatment, apportionment) and determine what the deposition needs to establish or challenge.
• Contact the client as needed to get an updated sense of their current medical status, ongoing symptoms, treatment, and how their case is progressing, to make sure the questions and strategy reflect where things stand.

Deposition Attendance

• Appear at and conduct QME depositions — both applicant-set and defense-set — in person or remotely, questioning the QME and making appropriate objections on the record.
• Take detailed notes during depositions, tracking key testimony, exhibits marked, and outstanding issues.
• Manage exhibits and make real-time strategic decisions on the scope and direction of questioning during the deposition.
• Coordinate post-deposition follow-up tasks.

Administrative & Case Management

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case files, deposition logs, and status reports.
• Communicate proactively with internal team members regarding case status, resolution opportunities, and deposition outcomes.
• Perform other litigation duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and active license to practice law in California (active member of the State Bar of California) required.
• 1+ years of experience litigating workers' compensation cases, including taking QME/AME depositions, strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of California workers' compensation procedures, QME processes, and deposition practice (or willingness to learn quickly).
• Prior experience as an associate attorney in a workers' compensation defense or applicant firm is a plus.

Additional Information

Skills & Competencies 

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess case files and identify resolution opportunities. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple deposition schedules simultaneously. 

• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet firm deadlines. 

• Proficiency with case management software, Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel), and e-filing/e-service systems. 

• Professional demeanor and courtroom-appropriate presence suitable for examining medical evaluators and appearing opposite opposing counsel. 

Work Environment 

• Standard office environment with regular travel to QME offices, deposition sites, or virtual deposition platforms. 

• May require occasional early morning, evening, or extended hours to accommodate deposition schedules. 

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary of $110,000 -$130,000 and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and unlimited paid time off (PTO).
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing legal education (CLE).
• A supportive work environment dedicated to teamwork, integrity, and excellence in client service.

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Department

Worker's Compensation

Employment Type

Full Time

Location

California

Workplace type
Remote

Compensation

$110,000 - $130,000 

Final offered salary is commensurate with experience.

Compensation: 110000 to 130000 (USD) (YEARLY)