Underwriting Counsel
Job Title: Underwriting Counsel
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Position Summary
Underwriting Counsel is responsible for evaluating, advising, and ensuring compliance with title insurance underwriting standards in the State of Alabama. This role provides legal guidance on underwriting matters, assists title agents and internal teams with complex title issues, and supports the company’s risk management objectives across the region. The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of Alabama property law, title insurance practices, and regulatory requirements. One of the primary goals of underwriting counsel is to assist our agents in making sure their transactions close after critically analyzing the risk and finding ways to minimize that risk.
Why Join Our Team
Join a dynamic, collaborative team backed by the strength and resources of an industry leader. We value people who take initiative, think creatively, and are passionate about helping customers succeed. In this role, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, build trusted relationships, and grow your expertise in a supportive environment that values sound judgment, exceptional service, and practical solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Underwriting & Risk Analysis
- Review and evaluate title searches, commitments, policies, and supporting documentation for residential and commercial transactions
- Analyze and resolve complex title issues, including ownership disputes, encumbrances, easements, liens, estates, and curative matters
- Provide underwriting decisions consistent with company guidelines, state law, and risk tolerance
- Draft or approve endorsements, policy exceptions, and coverage determinations
Legal Guidance & Support
- Provide legal guidance and support to independent title agents and internal teams to ensure compliance with underwriting standards and state regulations, while serving as a primary resource for related legal and operational matters across Alabama.
- Provide guidance on Alabama legal concepts, including real property, estates, mineral rights, and civil law principles, while interpreting and advising on state statutes, regulatory requirements, and agency underwriting agreements.
- Assist with regulatory inquiries, and internal compliance reviews while supporting the claims department with analysis of potential title insurance claims and coverage issues.
Business Support & Development
- Partner with sales and operations teams to support business growth while maintaining sound underwriting practices
- Deliver presentations and webinars. Conduct training sessions for agents and internal staff on underwriting practices, legal updates, and risk mitigation
- Develop strong relationships with agents, attorneys, and industry stakeholders in the Alabama market
- Contribute to underwriting policy development, process improvements, and best practices
Qualifications
Requirements
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
- Active license to practice law in Alabama (required)
- 5+ years of experience in real estate, title insurance underwriting, or related legal practice
- Familiarity with commercial transactions, multi-state issues, and complex title matters is a plus
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong understanding of Alabama law, including property, estates, and real estate law
- Knowledge of ALTA policies, endorsements, and underwriting practices
- Excellent analytical, legal drafting, and problem-solving skills
- Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex legal concepts to both legal and non-legal professionals
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced environment
Technical Skills
- Strong Microsoft Office skills (Word, Outlook, Excel)
Key Competencies
- Sound judgment and risk assessment
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Client service orientation
- Collaboration and relationship building
- Adaptability in a regulatory and business-driven environment
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience)
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k), etc.)
- Continuing legal education (CLE) support
- Paid time off and holidays