What are the responsibilities and job description for the Family Law Attorney Associate position at Pinkham & Associates APLC?
About Us
We are a boutique family law firm dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized representation in dissolution, custody, support, and related matters. Our practice is focused on professionalism, integrity, and client-centered advocacy. We offer a collegial environment, reasonable caseloads, and strong support staff.
Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced Family Law Attorney to join our team. The ideal candidate has a solid background in California family law, is comfortable handling their own caseload from intake through resolution, and enjoys working closely with clients during difficult transitions.
Key Responsibilities
- Independently manage a caseload of family law matters, including dissolution, legal separation, paternity, custody/visitation, child and spousal support, and property division.
- Handle all aspects of litigation: pleadings, discovery, law and motion, settlement negotiations, and trial preparation.
- Appear at hearings, status conferences, settlement conferences, and trials in Orange County and surrounding counties, as needed.
- Draft high-quality pleadings, declarations, settlement proposals, and correspondence.
- Provide clear, compassionate communication and advice to clients, managing expectations and strategy.
- Collaborate with staff (paralegals, legal assistants) to ensure deadlines are met and files are maintained in an orderly fashion.
- Maintain accurate timekeeping and assist with billing-related tasks consistent with firm policies.
Qualifications
- Active member in good standing with the State Bar of California.
- Minimum 5 years of recent experience practicing California family law.
- Substantial experience with:
- Judicial Council forms and local rules (Orange County and Los Angeles, preferred).
- Discovery (form/special interrogatories, RFAs, RFPs, subpoenas) and evidence issues.
- Law and motion practice (RFOs, DVROs, contempt, post‑judgment issues).
- Strong courtroom skills and comfort conducting hearings and contested matters.
- Excellent legal writing, research, and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage deadlines, prioritize tasks, and work both independently and as part of a team.
- Professional, empathetic approach to clients dealing with emotionally charged issues.
Preferred Attributes
- Experience with complex property division, business valuations, and support guideline software (e.g., DissoMaster or similar).
- Familiarity with Odyssey/e-filing and electronic document management systems (e.g., Dropbox, practice management software).
- Prior experience in a boutique or small firm environment.
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Performance-based bonus potential.
- Benefits package (e.g., health insurance, PTO, MCLE support, bar dues reimbursement – tailor to your firm).
- Opportunities for professional development and growth within the firm.
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and a short writing sample (preferably a family law pleading or brief) to [insert email address]. In your cover letter, briefly describe your family law experience, typical caseload, and your approach to client communication.