Associate

Law Office of Sara S. Thompson, PC; Auburn (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Law Office of Sara S. Thompson, PC in Auburn, CA is seeking a full-time Associate to support its family law practice on-site. You will meet clients, conduct legal research, draft pleadings, motions, and discovery materials, and prepare for hearings.

You will collaborate with the principal attorney and staff to move cases forward efficiently while maintaining compassionate, client-centered service. This role offers opportunities to develop strong family law skills in a small team environment

Qualifications

• Active CA bar license in good standing.
• Experience or strong interest in family law, including divorce, custody, and support.
• Solid legal research and writing skills with the ability to draft clear pleadings and motions.
• Excellent client communication and advocacy in emotionally charged matters.

Responsibilities

• Meet with clients to assess the case and gather information.
• Conduct legal research and draft pleadings, motions, and correspondence.
• Prepare discovery and support settlement negotiations.
• Appear in court and collaborate with the principal attorney and staff to move cases forward.

Skills

Legal research

Drafting pleadings

Oral advocacy

Client communication

Case management

Time management

Team collaboration

Electronic filing

Education

Juris Doctor (JD)

Licensed to practice law in California

Tools

Case management software

E-filing systems

Job description

Company Description The Law Office of Sara S. Thompson, PC is a family law firm based in Auburn, CA, serving clients who are navigating challenging personal and legal situations. The firm focuses on guiding individuals through the family law process with compassion, clarity, and strong advocacy. The team understands the emotional impact of issues such as divorce, custody, and support, and works diligently at every stage of a case. Applicants can expect to join a practice that prioritizes client support, professional integrity, and thorough representation in family law matters.

Role Description The Associate will work full time on-site in Auburn, CA, supporting the firm’s family law practice. Day-to-day responsibilities include meeting with clients, conducting legal research, drafting pleadings, motions, and correspondence, and preparing discovery. The role also involves appearing in court, participating in settlement negotiations, and collaborating with the principal attorney and staff to move cases forward efficiently. The Associate will manage a cases, maintain organized files, track deadlines, and communicate regularly with clients, opposing counsel, and the court. This position offers the opportunity to develop strong family law skills in a supportive, client-centered environment.

Qualifications

• Licensed to practice law in California and in good standing with the State Bar
• Experience or strong interest in family law, including issues such as divorce, custody, and support
• Solid legal research and writing skills, with the ability to draft clear, persuasive pleadings and motions
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, and courtroom presentation skills
• Excellent client communication skills, with the ability to handle sensitive, emotionally charged matters professionally
• Effective time management, case organization, and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work collaboratively with a small team and also manage tasks independently
• Proficiency with standard law office software, case management systems, and electronic filing procedures
• Commitment to ethical practice, confidentiality, and respectful, non-discriminatory client service
• Prior experience in a family law or litigation practice preferred, but motivated early-career attorneys are encouraged to apply