Associate Attorney - Family Law

About the Company

A boutique family law firm based in San Francisco is seeking a California-licensed Associate Attorney to join its growing practice. The firm handles sophisticated and often high-conflict family law matters, including contested custody, complex support issues, characterization disputes, vocational evaluations, forensic accounting, and trial work. The environment is hands-on, high-standard, and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on ownership, accountability, and quality of work.

About the Role

This is a litigation-focused position suited for an attorney with a minimum of 2 years of dedicated family law experience. The position involves managing an active caseload under supervision while taking meaningful responsibility for motion practice, client communication, and courtroom appearances. The firm is looking for someone who can step in and contribute immediately, without requiring training in core family law fundamentals.

Responsibilities

• Handle substantive family law matters from drafting through hearing, including RFOs, oppositions, replies, and declarations
• Prepare points and authorities, attorney’s fee declarations, and responsive pleadings
• Manage discovery, meet-and-confer correspondence, and case strategy alongside supervising attorneys
• Appear at hearings, including short cause matters, and assist with trial preparation and execution
• Communicate directly with clients and opposing counsel in a proactive and professional manner
• Maintain ownership over assigned matters, including managing deadlines and progressing cases efficiently

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of substantive family law experience (required)
• Admitted to practice in California (required)
• Experience handling motion practice and maintaining a hearing calendar under supervision
• Prior courtroom experience strongly preferred, including appearances and witness handling
• An interest in pursuing a CFLS track (advantageous)

Required Skills

• Exceptional legal writing ability - clear, concise, organized, and persuasive
• Strong judgment and willingness to take ownership of work and outcomes
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Comfort receiving direct feedback and revising work to meet a high standard
• Professional, proactive communication style with both clients and opposing counsel

Compensation

• Compensation is competitive for the Bay Area and will be discussed with strong candidates.