Client Payment Specialist

Musick Peeler - Client Payment Specialist – Job Description

Musick, Peeler & Garrett LLP has an opening for an experienced Client Payment Specialist in our Los Angeles office. This position is full-time, non-exempt, and on-site. 

The Client Payment Specialist works closely with the Director of Finance and the Collections Team and is responsible for the accurate and timely posting of all incoming payments and the compliant administration of firm trust transactions. This role requires advanced proficiency with Aderant accounting workflows, strong adherence to trust accounting regulations, and consistent coordination with Accounts Payable to ensure daily reconciliation of cash activity. The position supports the integrity of the firm’s financial records and contributes directly to compliance, audit readiness, and operational efficiency.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Post all daily incoming receipts—including ACH, wires, checks, credit card payments, and other remittances, ensuring accurate allocation to client matters and general ledger account allocation.
• Process all trust account deposits, disbursements, and transfers in accordance with firm policies, IOLTA requirements, and applicable trust accounting rules.
• Perform daily reconciliation of cash activity by comparing Aderant postings to bank totals, coordinating with Accounts Payable to resolve variances.
• Conduct outreach to clients regarding payment timing, anticipated incoming funds; clarification of remittance details; documentation of all communication as required.
• Research and resolve discrepancies related to cash application, trust transactions, or client payment inquiries, escalating issues as appropriate.
• Maintain complete and accurate documentation to support internal controls, month‑end close, and audit compliance.
• Collaborate with Billing, Accounts Payable, Collections, and other internal departments to ensure consistency and accuracy across financial workflows.
• Adhere to all firm policies, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements related to cash handling and trust account management.

Qualifications:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field is preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a law firm accounting department is required. 
• Demonstrated proficiency with Aderant, Elite (Enterprise, 3E), or similar accounting system.
• Strong understanding of trust account compliance, including IOLTA requirements.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail when working with financial data is expected.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Professional communication skills, including the ability to interact directly with clients.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment and maintain professional, courteous, and effective communication with attorneys, staff, and outside contacts.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
• Experience supporting daily cash reconciliation workflows in Aderant or similar system.
• Familiarity with confidential law firm billing structures and matter‑based accounting.
• Proactive outlook and prior experience in a high‑volume cash application environment.
• Consistent attendance, punctuality, and reliability are essential requirements to ensure operational continuity, support team collaboration, and maintain workflow efficiency. Employees may also be required to work overtime as needed to meet occasional time-sensitive deadlines and business demands.

Benefits/Compensation:

We offer a collaborative and professional work environment with a competitive salary and excellent benefits. A summary of our full-time, non-exempt benefits includes:

• Retirement: 401(k) plan with annual employer contribution; employee deferrals
• Healthcare: Medical (HMO/PPO options), dental, and vision coverage; Dependent coverage, domestic partners coverage is available
• Life Insurance: Group and supplemental life insurance options available 
• Disability: Long-term disability and long-term care insurance options available
• Wellbeing: Employee wellbeing initiatives, including EAP professional counseling and referral services
• Paid Time Off: Competitive paid vacation and sick leave; paid firm holidays
• Parking/Commuting: Staff parking is covered by the firm. Monthly travel allowance offered 
• Celebrations: Events for holidays, birthday commemorations, special staff acknowledgments and annual events
• Community Involvement: Community firm-sponsored volunteer opportunities
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)/Plans – Sections 125 and 132 plans available 
• Professional Development: In-house training programs, continuing learning and professional growth and development opportunities

Salary range for this position is $75K DOE

Firm Info: 

Please visit www.musickpeeler.com for more detailed information about our firm. 

Musick, Peeler & Garrett LLP provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, creed, gender, religion, marital status, age, national origin, sex or any other applicable category protected by state and/or federal laws. In addition to federal law requirements, Musick, Peeler & Garrett LLP complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the firm has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, retention, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Salary : $75,000 - $80,000