Special Counsel

Company Description

For 70 years, our firm has been a trusted legal partner throughout North and South Carolina — delivering strategic defense, practical counsel, and results that matter. Across our five offices, we combine knowledge and experience with the resources and insight to manage complex claims and litigation efficiently.

We believe the strongest defense is built on solid relationships and client engagement. Our attorneys are more than counsel. We stand beside clients at every stage of a dispute by offering clear guidance, focused strategy, and relentless advocacy. Clients trust us to protect their interests and show up when it matters most.

What sets us apart is our commitment to true partnership. We invest deeply in understanding each client’s unique perspective, challenges they are facing, and their priorities, ensuring our counsel is practical and aligned with your business goals.

We blend a legacy of steady, dependable advocacy with a collaborative multi-generational approach — where experience meets innovation and grit meets adaptability. This balance allows us to navigate complex claims with precision that enhances efficiency and outcomes.

Our five offices across the Carolinas give us unmatched perspective. We understand the nuances of state and regional regulations and court practices, enabling us to craft defense strategies grounded in real-world environments.

Job Description

Hedrick Gardner Kincheloe & Garofalo LLP is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Special Counsel attorney to join our growing Civil Litigation practice in Asheville, North Carolina. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned litigator to join an established and thriving practice, handle sophisticated litigation matters, and contribute to the continued growth of the firm's presence in Western North Carolina.

The ideal candidate will be a North Carolina-licensed attorney with a strong background in civil litigation defense and a demonstrated ability to independently manage complex matters from inception through resolution. This role offers significant responsibility, direct client interaction, and the opportunity to work alongside experienced trial attorneys in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Position Overview

As Special Counsel, you will be responsible for managing a diverse caseload of civil litigation matters through all phases of the litigation process. Responsibilities include case evaluation and strategy development, discovery, depositions, motion practice, mediation, arbitration, trial preparation, and trial. The successful candidate will serve as a trusted advisor to clients, develop practical and effective litigation strategies, and provide exceptional client service throughout the life of each matter.

Candidates should have substantial experience defending civil litigation claims, with preference given to attorneys who have handled matters involving:

• Construction Litigation
• Trucking and Transportation Litigation
• Products Liability
• Professional Liability
• Motor Vehicle Negligence
• Premises Liability
• Commercial Litigation

The ideal attorney will possess strong advocacy skills, superior legal writing abilities, and a proven track record of successfully handling complex litigation matters through trial and arbitration.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently manage a civil litigation caseload from inception through resolution.
• Develop and implement effective case strategies tailored to client objectives.
• Conduct and defend depositions of parties, fact witnesses, experts, and corporate representatives.
• Draft and argue motions, briefs, and other substantive legal filings.
• Represent clients at mediations, arbitrations, hearings, and trials.
• Conduct legal research and analysis to support litigation strategies and client recommendations.
• Communicate regularly with clients regarding case developments, risk assessments, and resolution strategies.
• Collaborate with attorneys across practice groups on complex litigation matters.
• Mentor and support junior attorneys and contribute to the continued growth of the practice.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and an active license to practice law in the State of North Carolina.
• Minimum of five (5) years of civil litigation experience, with a strong background in defending civil litigation claims.
• Demonstrated experience handling matters through all phases of litigation, including case evaluation, discovery, depositions, motion practice, mediation, arbitration, and trial.
• Experience in one or more of the following practice areas is strongly preferred:
  • Construction Litigation
  • Trucking and Transportation Litigation
  • Products Liability
  • Professional Liability
  • Motor Vehicle Negligence
  • Premises Liability
  • Commercial Litigation
• Proven trial and arbitration experience, with the ability to independently manage complex litigation matters from inception through resolution.
• Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and advocacy skills, including the ability to draft persuasive motions, briefs, and case evaluations.
• Excellent communication, client management, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to serve as a trusted advisor to clients and insurance professionals.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team-oriented litigation practice.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Open to North Carolina-licensed attorneys currently residing in Western North Carolina as well as candidates interested in relocating to the region.
• Interest in a flexible hybrid work arrangement, with Asheville serving as the attorney's home office.

Preferred Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is an experienced civil litigator with a proven track record of defending complex civil litigation matters and successfully handling cases through trial and arbitration. This attorney will possess strong strategic thinking, sound judgment, and exceptional advocacy skills, along with the ability to independently manage a sophisticated caseload while providing outstanding client service. Candidates seeking a long-term opportunity in the Western North Carolina market and a flexible hybrid work environment are encouraged to apply.

Additional Information

Work Environment:

• Office Setting
• Remote work capabilities provided as needed

Benefits:

• Student Loan Repayment Assistance
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life
• Short-term Disability
• Long-term Disability
• HRA
• FSA
• 401K
• Pet Insurance
• Paid Holidays
• 3 weeks of PTO

Benefit Conditions:

• Waiting period may apply
• Only full-time employees eligible

Ability to commute/relocate:

Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work.

Hedrick Gardner is committed to the equal employment opportunity of all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law.