What Does a Family Attorney Do?
A family attorney provides legal counsel and representation in matters related to domestic relationships, including divorce, child custody, adoption, guardianship, and domestic violence. These professionals guide clients through complex legal processes, help resolve disputes through negotiation or litigation, and work to protect their clients’ rights and best interests during emotionally charged situations.
Family attorneys may work in private firms, legal aid organizations, or government agencies. Their work involves drafting legal documents, conducting legal research, representing clients in court or mediation, and managing all aspects of case strategy. They must stay current with state laws, court procedures, and regulations that affect family dynamics and responsibilities.
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Family Attorney Core Responsibilities
- Represent clients in family law proceedings, including divorce, child custody, child support, and adoption
- Prepare legal documents such as pleadings, motions, settlement agreements, and parenting plans
- Provide legal counsel and case strategy tailored to each client’s unique circumstances
- Manage caseloads from intake through resolution while maintaining accurate records and deadlines
- Advocate on clients’ behalf in court hearings, depositions, and mediation sessions
- Negotiate settlements and draft comprehensive agreements in contested and uncontested cases
- Conduct legal research and stay up to date on changes in state family laws
- Collaborate with paralegals, investigators, and other attorneys as needed
- Maintain strict client confidentiality and uphold ethical standards
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in family law and civil litigation
- Skilled in legal writing, motion practice, and courtroom procedure
- Strong knowledge of state family law statutes, court rules, and precedent
- Experience with legal case management software and research tools
Soft skills
- Strong verbal and written communication
- Empathy, discretion, and the ability to build client trust
- Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution abilities
- Strong organizational and time management skills
Education
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school
- Must be licensed to practice law in the relevant state
Certifications
- State bar admission (required)
Certification as a Family Law Specialist (available in certain states) is preferred for more advanced roles.
Preferred Qualifications
- 3–7 years of experience practicing family law
- Experience handling both contested and uncontested family cases
- Background in mediation or collaborative law processes
- Multilingual abilities or experience serving diverse client populations
National Average Salary
Family attorney salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Family Law Attorney is:
$111,867
Sample Job Description Templates for Family Attorneys
Junior Family Law Associate
Position Overview
Our firm is seeking a Junior Family Law Associate to support attorneys in a wide range of family law cases, including divorce, custody, and support matters. This is an excellent opportunity for a newly licensed attorney to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of seasoned family law professionals. The ideal candidate will be a proactive learner with excellent organizational skills and a client-first mindset.
Responsibilities
- Assist senior attorneys with legal research, case preparation, and drafting pleadings
- Support discovery efforts, including organizing documents and preparing exhibits
- Attend client meetings, hearings, and mediation sessions alongside supervising attorneys
- Draft routine motions, court forms, and correspondence under supervision
- Maintain case files and ensure deadlines are tracked and met
- Participate in case strategy discussions and assist with trial preparation
- Communicate professionally with clients, opposing counsel, and court personnel
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong legal research and writing abilities
- Familiarity with family law procedures and documentation
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal case management software
Soft skills
- Eagerness to learn and take feedback
- Excellent organization and multitasking
- Strong interpersonal and listening skills
Education
- Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
- Admitted to practice law in the state
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or clinical experience in family law
- Interest in pursuing certification in family law specialization
Family Law Associate
Position Overview
We are hiring a Family Law Associate to independently manage a caseload of family law matters, including divorce, custody, paternity, and domestic violence. This position is ideal for a motivated attorney with strong courtroom and client management skills. You’ll be expected to provide strategic counsel and deliver excellent representation both in and out of court.
Responsibilities
- Represent clients in hearings, depositions, and mediations
- Draft and file legal documents including motions, discovery, and settlement agreements
- Develop case strategy and manage cases from intake to resolution
- Negotiate settlements and participate in collaborative law sessions
- Conduct legal research and analyze case law
- Maintain regular communication with clients and ensure they understand case progress
- Collaborate with support staff and legal assistants
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficient in civil procedure and family law litigation
- Experience managing client communications and court filings
- Strong legal writing and oral advocacy skills
Soft skills
- Ability to manage sensitive cases with empathy and professionalism
- Self-motivated with strong time management
- Detail-oriented and solution-focused
Education
- JD from an accredited law school
- Active bar license in the practicing state
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–4 years of experience in family law practice
- Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred
Senior Family Attorney
Position Overview
Our firm is seeking a Senior Family Attorney to lead complex and high-value family law cases while mentoring junior attorneys. This role requires a seasoned litigator with deep subject matter expertise and excellent leadership abilities. You’ll handle a diverse caseload while playing an active role in shaping client strategy and internal best practices.
Responsibilities
- Lead litigation and settlement of complex divorce, custody, and asset division cases
- Serve as a key advisor to clients with sensitive or high-stakes legal matters
- Mentor junior attorneys and review legal work product
- Develop long-term case strategies and ensure legal compliance
- Manage relationships with clients, opposing counsel, and third-party professionals
- Provide input on firm policy, case allocation, and practice development
Requirements
Hard skills
- Extensive experience in family law litigation, discovery, and trial preparation
- Strong understanding of child custody laws, spousal support, and equitable distribution
- Proficient in supervising staff and managing case calendars
Soft skills
- Excellent judgment and ethical decision-making
- Strong leadership and mentoring ability
- High emotional intelligence and discretion
Education
- JD from an accredited law school
- Licensed and in good standing with the state bar
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of family law experience
- Experience handling complex custody disputes or high-net-worth clients
Lead Family Law Counsel
Position Overview
We are looking for a Lead Family Law Counsel to oversee a team of attorneys and manage the firm’s most sensitive and strategically important family law cases. This role combines direct legal representation with leadership, client development, and operational oversight responsibilities. The ideal candidate is an experienced attorney with the ability to guide both clients and colleagues through complex legal issues.
Responsibilities
- Oversee the work of multiple attorneys and paralegals within the family law division
- Handle a reduced caseload of high-profile or sensitive family law cases
- Supervise litigation strategies and review settlement agreements
- Participate in leadership meetings and contribute to firm-wide planning
- Maintain and grow relationships with key clients and referral sources
- Provide strategic input on business development and marketing efforts
Requirements
Hard skills
- Strong leadership and case management across large legal teams
- Advanced legal knowledge in all areas of family law
- Experience with law firm operations and client portfolio management
Soft skills
- Executive presence and leadership maturity
- Ability to delegate, coach, and inspire
- Exceptional client relationship management
Education
- JD from an accredited institution
- Active bar membership and exemplary standing
Preferred Qualifications
- 8+ years of family law experience
- Prior experience in a leadership or supervisory legal role
Partner – Family Law Practice
Position Overview
We are seeking a Partner to lead and grow our Family Law Practice Group. This is a key leadership role responsible for generating new business, mentoring attorneys, managing senior-level cases, and shaping the strategic direction of the firm’s family law offerings. The Partner must be an established practitioner with a strong referral network and a reputation for excellence in family law.
Responsibilities
- Provide high-level counsel and representation to select clients
- Manage overall practice operations including hiring, performance, and profitability
- Lead firm-wide strategy for family law growth and client acquisition
- Oversee quality control across all cases and legal teams
- Represent the firm at networking events, conferences, and bar associations
- Collaborate with firm leadership on budgeting and long-term planning
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proven track record of business development and case origination
- Deep understanding of family law trends and best practices
- Leadership experience in law firm or legal department management
Soft skills
- Entrepreneurial mindset with team-first leadership style
- Highly respected in the legal community
- Strategic thinker and polished communicator
Education
- JD from an accredited law school
- Licensed to practice law in current state and in good standing
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of family law experience
- Board certification in family law (where available)
- Established client base or transferable book of business