Associate Attorney at The Colwell Law Group

Location: On-site role in Rochester, NY. No relocation assistance provided.

*If you are a litigator without Family Matrimonial Law experience, we are willing to train.*

An Associate Attorney is responsible for handling legal matters related to family and matrimonial law, including divorce, child custody, support, property division, prenuptial agreements, and more. The associate attorney will work closely with managing and senior attorneys and clients, providing legal advice, drafting legal documents, and representing clients in negotiations and court proceedings. Associate Attorneys will have a strong understanding of family law, excellent advocacy skills, and a commitment to supporting clients during emotionally challenging times.

This role offers the opportunity for growth and the chance to provide meaningful legal support to individuals and families navigating challenging personal issues. An Associate Attorney will play a critical role in advocating for clients and ensuring their rights are protected throughout the legal process. 

$80,000 - $100,000 salary + quarterly bonuses

 Legal Representation: 

• Handle all aspects of matrimonial and family law cases, including divorce, custody, spousal support, child support, equitable distribution, and domestic violence issues. 
• Advise clients on legal rights, obligations, and strategies, ensuring they are fully informed about their options. 
• Represent clients in court, hearings, and settlement negotiations. 
• Prepare legal documents such as discovery, motions, pleadings, agreements, and settlements. 
• Meet minimum billed and collected hours as stated in the bonus letter. 

Client Management: 

• Serve as the primary contact for clients, managing client expectations and providing strategic counsel. 
• Maintain clear, empathetic, and professional communication with clients throughout the case. 
• Build lasting client relationships and work to retain and attract new clients through excellent service and legal expertise. 

Case Management: 

• Handle a caseload of family and matrimonial law matters, including but not limited to divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and domestic violence. 
• Conduct legal research and draft legal documents such as pleadings, motions, petitions, agreements, affidavits, and discovery responses. 
• Represent clients in court proceedings, mediation, and settlement conferences. 
• Maintain case files, ensuring all documents, communications, and deadlines are managed efficiently. 
• Assist managing and senior attorneys with complex cases and collaborate on legal strategies and trial preparation. 
• Manage all aspects of case development from strategy meeting to resolution, including case analysis, and filing of necessary documents with the court. 

Negotiation: 

• Lead negotiation efforts on behalf of clients, aiming for amicable settlements where possible. 
• Resolve disputes efficiently while protecting clients’ interests. 
• Develop innovative legal strategies to achieve favorable outcomes in both litigation and settlement scenarios.

Legal Research & Continuing Education: 

• Stay updated on recent developments in matrimonial and family law. 
• Conduct in-depth legal research to support case strategy and preparation. 
• Attend legal seminars, conferences, and workshops relevant to matrimonial law when available. 

Administrative Duties: 

• Ensure all billing, timekeeping, and case documentation is completed in a timely manner. 
• Collaborate with the firm’s administrative and financial teams to manage client billing and collections. 
• Ensure compliance with the firm’s standards and all relevant legal regulations. 
• Track and report on your assigned key performance indicators (KPIs). 

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.  
• Admission to the state bar in the jurisdiction of practice.  
• 2-5 years of experience in litigation (family/matrimonial experience preferred).  
• Excellent oral and written advocacy skills, with experience in courtroom litigation.  
• Track record of providing excellent client service.  
• A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle are required.  
• *If you are a litigator without Family Matrimonial Law experience, we are willing to train.*

Skills:  

• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills.  
• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.  
• Empathy and interpersonal skills, with the ability to handle emotionally charged situations.  
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.  
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage client expectations. 

Benefits:  

• 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% matching contribution 
• Medical coverage with a national network and the firm pays for 75% of the Employee cost 
• Company paid $50,000 Life Insurance Policy 
• Dental, vision/Rx, pet, Aflac, and life insurance policy options 
• Paid time off 10 days of vacation, 7 days of personal, and 8 paid holidays 
• Collaborative management philosophy 
• Professional, respectful, and diverse work culture 

Working Conditions:  

• Full-time position, primarily in an office environment with frequent court appearances.  
• Regular travel to local courthouses and client meetings.  
• Potential for extended hours, especially during trial preparation or busy periods.  
• Travel to meetings and court appearances.