Senior Associate Attorney at The Colwell Law Group

This is an on-site role in Rochester, NY. No relocation assistance is provided.

Do you have a successful track record representing clients and are interested in mentoring the next generation of legal professionals? Our firm is seeking an experienced senior attorney who is adept at handling a large caseload and familiar with all aspects of the trial process, particularly drafting pleadings, motions, notices, and working toward a resolution. Your years of experience will also help coach our newer associates toward a similar route for success. If this sounds like a perfect position for you, please send us your resume today.

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

• Counsel associates to resolve or prevent conflicts
• Attend court hearings on behalf of clients and argue motions
• Draft legal documents, such as pleadings, motions, notices, and discovery requests and responses
• Anticipate, prepare for, and attend trials, mediation, and arbitration on behalf of clients
• Complete legal research and prepare motions, pleadings, and briefs

At the firm, the Senior Associate Attorney has a diverse range of responsibilities centered around providing legal representation and support to clients navigating familial legal matters. Their duties often involve managing a caseload of cases related to divorce, child custody, spousal support, adoption, and other family law issues.

This includes conducting legal research, drafting various legal documents such as petitions, motions, and settlement agreements, and representing clients in court proceedings, including hearings and trials.

Additionally, associate attorneys in this practice area often engage in client counseling, providing guidance and advice on legal rights, responsibilities, and potential outcomes. Senior Associate Attorneys may also participate in negotiation sessions to reach amicable settlements or alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation. 

• Provide legal representation and support to clients in Albany, NY, navigating familial legal matters, including divorce, child custody, spousal support, adoption, and other family law issues
• Conduct legal research and draft various legal documents such as petitions, motions, and settlement agreements for family law and divorce cases
• Represent clients in court proceedings, including hearings and trials, advocating for their interests in family law and divorce matters
• Engage in client counseling, offering guidance on legal rights, responsibilities, and potential outcomes related to family law and divorce
• Manage a caseload of family law and divorce cases, maintaining communication with clients regarding case updates and developments
• Participate in negotiation sessions to reach settlements outside of court and engage in alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation
• Collaborate with the Regional Managing Attorney, contributing to a supportive work environment and mentoring a team of legal professionals
• Travel to courts and proceedings throughout central New York State, with some travel to Albany and Saratoga Springs, NY locations as required
• Achieve the billable hour requirement set by the firm and work closely with the billing department to ensure accurate client billing

• Able to work independently while handling multiple files
• 5 years of required experience as a senior associate in the legal field
• Excellent time management and interpersonal skills are required, as well as persuasive writing and verbal communication skills
• Previous experience advocating for clients in trials, mediation, and arbitration

• 5+ years of family or matrimonial law experience and/or general litigation experience is preferred
• Applicants must hold a membership in good standing with the New York State Bar, and memberships in other state bars are considered advantageous
• Prior experience in private law firms, corporate, or government settings is desirable
• Proficiency in managing a range of sensitive legal matters such as divorce, child custody, domestic violence, and matrimonial disputes is a crucial requirement
• A deep understanding of the New York Family Court Act and Domestic Relations Law is necessary
• Candidates should exhibit excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills
• Strong organizational skills, follow-through, and flexibility in handling changing priorities and deadlines are expected
• A positive collaborative attitude is essential for effective teamwork
• The ability to resolve interpersonal conflicts and support employee growth goals is crucial for this role
• Candidates should be able to advocate effectively in court and office settings, managing high-stress litigation matters with composure
• Maintaining empathy, humility, patience, and professionalism in interactions with colleagues and clients from diverse backgrounds is vital for success in this position
• A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle are required for this position
• Must pass a background check

• Medical coverage with a national network and the firm pays for 75% of the Employee portion
• 401(k) retirement plan with a 4% matching
• Health, dental, vision/Rx, pet, Aflac, and life insurance policy options
• Company paid $50,000 Life Insurance Policy
• Paid time off 1 week personal, 2 weeks vacation, and 7 paid holidays
• Open-door leadership philosophy
• Professional, diverse, inclusive, respectful, and friendly workplace environment
• A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle are required for this position
• Must pass a background check