What's Happening?
DLA Piper is actively recruiting an Of Counsel with a strong background in product liability litigation, specifically focusing on pharmaceutical and medical device cases. The position is open across all of the firm's U.S. offices. Candidates are required
to have at least eight years of experience, preferably gained at an AmLaw 100 firm, and must possess a science background such as an MD, MPH, PharmD, or Epidemiology. A key requirement for the role is extensive experience in drafting briefs, particularly those related to Rule 702 of the Federal Rules of Evidence and Daubert issues. The successful candidate will be responsible for reviewing and drafting discovery responses, briefs, motions, and memoranda, communicating with clients, supervising associates, working with experts, assisting with fact development and depositions, and helping to develop case strategy. Strong analytical, writing, and organizational skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively and independently in a fast-paced environment.
Why It's Important?
This recruitment drive by DLA Piper highlights the increasing demand for specialized legal expertise in the complex and highly regulated fields of pharmaceutical and medical device product liability. The requirement for a science background underscores the technical nature of these cases, where a deep understanding of scientific and medical principles is crucial for effective litigation. For the legal industry, this signifies a trend towards more interdisciplinary legal professionals who can bridge the gap between law and specialized scientific domains. For pharmaceutical and medical device companies, the availability of such specialized legal talent is critical for navigating potential litigation, managing risks, and ensuring compliance. The firm's investment in this area reflects the significant financial and reputational stakes involved in product liability lawsuits within these industries, where successful defense often hinges on intricate scientific arguments and expert testimony. This move also indicates DLA Piper's strategic focus on strengthening its litigation capabilities in high-value sectors.
What's Next?
DLA Piper will continue its search for qualified candidates to fill this specialized Of Counsel position across its U.S. offices. The firm will likely evaluate applicants based on their legal experience, scientific background, and demonstrated ability to handle complex product liability cases. Successful candidates will undergo a rigorous selection process, including interviews and writing sample evaluations. Once hired, the new Of Counsel will integrate into DLA Piper's litigation group, contributing to ongoing and future product liability cases. This strategic hiring is expected to enhance the firm's capacity to represent clients in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors, potentially leading to an increased caseload in these areas. The firm's continued emphasis on specialized legal talent with scientific expertise may also influence future hiring trends within the broader legal market, encouraging other firms to seek similar interdisciplinary professionals.
Beyond the Headlines
The demand for lawyers with scientific backgrounds in product liability cases reflects a broader evolution in legal practice, where technical and scientific literacy are becoming increasingly vital. This trend is driven by the growing complexity of products, particularly in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, and the sophisticated scientific evidence often presented in court. The integration of scientific expertise directly into legal teams can lead to more effective case strategies, better communication with scientific experts, and a deeper understanding of the technical nuances that can sway legal outcomes. This specialization also raises questions about legal education and training, suggesting a potential need for more interdisciplinary programs that combine legal studies with scientific disciplines. Furthermore, the high compensation offered for such roles underscores the value placed on this specialized knowledge, indicating a premium for legal professionals who can navigate the intersection of law and science in high-stakes litigation.
