About Vessell Bridges Murphy (VBM) Law: Founded by Jared Vessell, Ross Bridges, and Matthew Murphy, VBM has been dedicated to representing employers and insurance companies throughout all of Missouri and Illinois from our three office locations in Columbia, Springfield and St. Louis, Missouri. Our attorneys have a reputation for efficiencies, professionalism and respect for their opponents and each other. VBM strives to utilize modern technology and source new ideas from all team members, from the new hire to the senior partner. This approach ensures that everyone can maximize their productivity during work hours, enabling more time to live life to its fullest outside of work.
The individuals at VBM Law are a diverse group, hailing from various backgrounds, yet sharing a deep commitment to their community and a strong sense of purpose. Some have proudly served in the military, demonstrating resilience and dedication. Others have embarked on unconventional career paths, illustrating their ability to adapt and innovate. They collectively possess extensive legal expertise, ranging from workers' compensation to civil rights, and share a passion for advocating for their clients. In addition to their legal work, many are actively involved in charitable organizations, showcasing their commitment to giving back. Together, they represent a team of professionals who go beyond traditional legal roles. VBM is not your common practice.
About Jennifer Weller, Managing Partner, St. Louis: Jennifer grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. She earned her Juris Doctorate from St. Louis University School of Law and has represented the interests of employers and insurance companies in Missouri and Illinois workers’ compensation matters her entire career. She has been an active Board Member, and Past President, of Kids’ Chance, Inc. of Missouri, and co-chairs the annual St. Louis golf tournament and trivia night fundraisers. Kids’ Chance is a charitable organization providing scholarships to the children of employees who were either killed or severely disabled in work-related injuries.
With over 20 years of experience handling Missouri and Illinois workers’ compensation claims, Jennifer has defended claims including accidental injuries, repetitive trauma, alleged assault, and more. She also has over three years of experience as a staff attorney at one of the world’s largest insurers.
In her free time, Jennifer enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.
Junior Partner Role Overview: In this pivotal role, we are seeking accomplished senior associates or junior partner-level attorneys who bring substantial expertise to VBM. Following an initial orientation period, you will take on a leadership role, overseeing your own staff as you become the team leader in defending a diverse array of clients in Missouri Workers' Compensation cases. Your responsibilities will include a wide range of high-impact tasks, such as taking depositions, managing your own caseload and staff, conducting trials and appeals independently, and maintaining a profound understanding of evolving legal landscapes. Your instrumental role extends to drafting concise research articles for the firm's client newsletter, delivering educational presentations to clients, and actively participating in other client-oriented activities. These responsibilities provide just a glimpse of the multifaceted duties inherent in this role, where you will collaborate with Jennifer and her team, contributing significantly to the office's expansion and success.
Skills and Abilities:
Compelling Communication: Proficient in crafting persuasive arguments, both in writing and speech.
Research Savvy: Skilled at uncovering critical legal insights and evidence.
Logical Problem-Solving: Exceptional at dissecting complex legal issues with keen analytical thinking.
People Person: Effective at building strong relationships and rapport with clients and colleagues.
Master Multitasker: Capable of managing multiple cases and deadlines efficiently.
Strong Negotiator: Skilled in achieving favorable settlements through effective negotiation.
Attention to Detail: Diligent in spotting even the smallest particulars.
Organized: Adept at orchestrating tasks for maximum productivity.
Strong Leadership Drive: Thrives in a collaborative environment, inspiring support staff and paralegals to meet deadlines and expectations.
Salary and Benefits:
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Performance-based compensation providing the potential to earn up to an additional $22,500+ per year, on top of base salary
Recruitment bonus for recruiting new staff or attorneys to VBM
Paid vacation / sick time
Retirement with employer match
Health insurance with full employer paid premium
Vision, dental and other ancillary benefits offered
Mentorship offered by local Partner Attorney
Monthly cell phone reimbursement
Travel expense and meal reimbursement
Opportunity for advancement
Education and Qualifications:
Law degree from an ABA accredited law school.
Licensed to practice law in Missouri/Illinois.
Preference given to attorneys with prior experience in Workers’ Compensation law.
Preference given to attorneys who bring forth their own base of clients.
If you are a successful attorney seeking a change, we encourage you to apply today.
At Vessell Bridges Murphy, we strive to create an inclusive environment where employees want to work and where they can flourish professionally. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender identity and expression, race, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, ancestry, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Flexible work from home options available.