We are a family law firm in Roanoke, Virginia, looking for a motivated and passionate Summer Associate to join our team for 12 weeks.
This is not a summer of fetching coffee and sitting in the back of a conference room. We built this program to show you what practicing family law actually looks like from every angle, because the attorneys who thrive are the ones who understand the whole machine, not just the part they were handed.
You will work closely with our attorneys and staff to help deliver outstanding representation to our clients. You will get exposure to divorce, custody, equitable distribution, and mediation, and you will do real work on real cases.
What You Will Learn Here
The legal work. Research, memoranda, pleadings, discovery, trial prep. You will draft documents that get filed.
The paralegal side. Case management, document assembly, exhibit preparation, court filing procedures, and how a case file is actually built and maintained. Attorneys who never learned this spend their first three years guessing.
The administrative and business side. How a law firm runs. Intake, billing, client communication standards, and the systems that keep a case moving.
The client side. You will sit in on client meetings, depositions, mediations, and hearings. Family law clients are going through the hardest season of their lives, and learning to handle that well is a skill you cannot get from a textbook.
Representing clients, if you are eligible. If you hold a Virginia third-year practice certificate, we will put you to work under attorney supervision and get you in front of a judge. That is not a maybe. We will do our best to build your summer around it.
Responsibilities
Assist attorneys with case preparation, including research, drafting pleadings, and preparing discovery.
Attend client meetings, depositions, mediations, and court hearings to observe and support attorneys.
Conduct legal research and draft memoranda on family law issues.
Help prepare trial materials, including exhibits and witness lists.
Collaborate with paralegals and legal assistants on case management, and learn how that work is done.
Take on administrative and operational task
Appear on behalf of clients under supervision if you hold a third-year practice certificate.
Qualifications
Currently enrolled in an accredited law school (2L or 3L preferred).
Strong interest in family law and a desire to help clients navigate challenging life transitions.
Excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Professional demeanor and a commitment to maintaining client confidentiality.
A Virginia third-year practice certificate is a plus, not a requirement.
What We're Looking For
A candidate who is eager to learn and contribute to the success of our clients.
Someone who can approach cases with empathy and professionalism.
Someone who wants the full picture, including the parts that are not glamorous. The administrative work is not filler. It is part of the training.
A sense of humor and a positive attitude are always appreciated.
How to Apply
Submit your resume, cover letter, and a writing sample. In your cover letter, tell us why you are interested in family law and what you hope to get out of this summer. If you hold a third-year practice certificate or expect to have one by the start of the summer, say so.
We look forward to hearing from you.
