Senior Family Law Attorney

Job Overview:
A law firm seeks a seasoned Senior Family Law Attorney to join their team in Rochester, NY. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience handling family law matters, including divorce, child custody, spousal support, and adoption. This role involves leading case strategies, representing clients in court, and mentoring junior attorneys. You will manage a caseload independently and contribute to a collaborative work environment that values growth and professional excellence.

Duties:

• Provide mentorship and guidance to associate attorneys and paralegals.
• Conduct thorough legal research and draft motions, pleadings, and briefs.
• Stay current on local, state, and federal statutes, and legal precedents.
• Prepare and manage legal documents such as pleadings, motions, discovery requests, and responses.
• Represent clients in trials, mediations, and arbitration hearings.
• Manage a caseload involving family law matters, including divorce, child custody, spousal support, adoption, and related issues.
• Counsel clients on legal strategies, rights, and responsibilities.
• Participate in settlement negotiations and alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation.
• Collaborate with the Regional Managing Attorney to foster a positive and supportive work culture.
• Travel to court proceedings throughout central New York, including occasional trips to Albany and Saratoga Springs, NY.
• Ensure compliance with the firm's billable hour requirements and work with the billing department for accurate client billing.

Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years of experience as a Senior Associate Attorney.
• Proven trial, mediation, and arbitration experience.
• Extensive knowledge of family and matrimonial law, particularly the New York Family Court Act and Domestic Relations Law.
• Strong legal writing, editing, and persuasive communication skills.
• Ability to manage complex and sensitive cases related to divorce, child custody, domestic violence, and other family law issues.
• Excellent organizational skills and adaptability to handle shifting priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle.
• Must pass a background check.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Admitted to the New York State Bar in good standing.
• Additional state bar memberships are advantageous.

Skills:

• Strong legal research and drafting abilities.
• Expertise in managing high-stress litigation.
• Excellent time management and interpersonal skills.
• Capacity to mentor junior attorneys and contribute to a positive workplace culture.
• High levels of empathy, humility, and professionalism when interacting with clients and colleagues.

Job Location:

• Rochester, NY, with travel to courts across central New York.

Benefits:

• Medical coverage with a national network, with 75% of the employee portion covered by the firm.
• 401(k) retirement plan with 4% matching contributions.
• Health, dental, vision, prescription, pet, Aflac, and life insurance options.
• Company-paid $50,000 life insurance policy.
• Paid time off: 1 week of personal leave, 2 weeks of vacation, and 7 paid holidays.
• Open-door leadership and an inclusive, professional work environment.