Description:
About The Colwell Law GroupFor more than 20 years, The Colwell Law Group, LLC has helped families across Upstate New York navigate complex divorce and family law matters with strategy, compassion, and strength. We are a well-established, growing firm recognized for excellence in matrimonial and family law — handling everything from high-asset divorces and custody disputes to support enforcement and post-judgment matters.
We're seeking a motivated Associate Attorney who is eager to take the next step in their family law career — managing cases with increasing independence while working within a collaborative team of experienced litigators and mentors. This position is ideal for those searching for Associate Attorney jobs, Family Law Attorney positions, or Divorce Attorney opportunities across Upstate New York.
The Opportunity:
As an Associate Attorney, you'll handle a manageable caseload of family and matrimonial law matters under the supervision of a Senior Attorney or Managing Partner. This role is designed for an attorney with several years of litigation experience who's ready to deepen courtroom skills, master case strategy, and grow into a Senior Attorney role with the support of strong leadership and firm infrastructure.
Responsibilities:
- Manage a caseload of approximately 40–45 active matters, depending on complexity and scope.
- Represent clients in divorce, custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and Family Court proceedings.
- Conduct legal research, draft motions, pleadings, discovery responses, and settlement proposals.
- Prepare and appear at conferences, hearings, and mediations under attorney supervision when appropriate.
- Participate in preparation and case strategy meetings with Senior Attorneys and the Managing Partner to develop litigation and settlement approaches.
- Maintain regular, professional communication with clients, ensuring they feel supported and informed.
- Collaborate closely with paralegals, support staff, and Client Consultation Managers (CCMs) to ensure efficient case handling.
- Demonstrate CLG's core values — Give-a-Sh**, Integrity, Grit, Village, and Excellence — in all client and team interactions.
Qualifications:
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school.
- Admitted to practice in New York State or eligible for reciprocity/admission under the Office of Court Administration (OCA).
- 3–5 years of litigation experience, with family and/or matrimonial law experience preferred.
- Strong drafting and negotiation skills, with the ability to manage deadlines and competing priorities.
- Excellent courtroom demeanor and growing confidence in oral advocacy.
- High emotional intelligence and client empathy — able to guide individuals through sensitive family transitions.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development and readiness to advance to the next attorney tier based on performance.
Compensation & Benefits:
- Base Salary: $110,000 – $125,000 depending on experience
- Quarterly Bonuses based on KPIs
- Earning Potential: Significant upside, with annualized compensation well above base
- 401(k) with firm match
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off (PTO), holidays, and CLE support
- Mileage reimbursement for court and business travel
- Structured advancement track to Senior Attorney and Non-Equity Partner roles
- Structured attorney career path — from Law Clerk to Partner (Non-Equity) with clear performance expectations.
- Dedicated mentorship from Senior Attorneys and the Managing Partner.
- Supportive team culture emphasizing collaboration and excellence.
- Robust infrastructure — marketing, intake, billing, and admin support so you can focus on lawyering.
- Competitive salary, bonuses, and growth opportunities.
- Offices in Albany, Saratoga, Syracuse, and Rochester, offering flexibility and regional presence.
Join a firm where you can grow your practice, build courtroom experience, and contribute to a mission of helping families evolve fearlessly.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $110,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance