Associate Attorney

Atkins and Atkins, Attorneys at Law

Our Columbus offie is seeking an Associate Attorney with a demonstrated interest in the area of family law.

At Atkins and Atkins, Attorneys at Law, LLC, we view the practice of law as both a responsibility and a craft. Our role is not simply to advocate, but to guide—bringing clarity, judgment, and strategy to moments that are often emotionally charged and legally complex.

We believe good lawyering requires more than knowing the rules. It requires understanding how decisions play out in the real world, anticipating consequences before they arise, and advising clients with honesty—even when that advice is difficult to hear. Our strategy is built from the ground up for each client, and we never default to litigation for its own sake. Instead, we focus on outcomes that are legally sound, strategically smart, and aligned with our clients’ long-term interests.

We hold ourselves to high standards of preparation, precision, and reasoning. Every recommendation we make is grounded in the law, supported by careful analysis, and informed by practical experience. Our clients rely on us not just to speak for them, but to help them think clearly, decide wisely, and move forward with confidence.

At every stage, we act as stewards of both our clients’ objectives and the integrity of the legal process. That means thoughtful advocacy, disciplined strategy, and a commitment to doing the work the right way—not the easy way.

Role Overview

We are seeking an Associate Attorney who enjoys engaging directly with clients and views the practice of law as a discipline that requires judgment, preparation, and independent thinking. This role is not suited to attorneys looking for a formulaic or volume-driven practice. Our associates are expected to engage deeply with each matter, analyze cases from first principles, and contribute thoughtful, well-reasoned legal work.

You will work closely with senior attorneys in evaluating cases, developing strategy, and advising clients. While collaboration and mentorship are integral to our practice, associates are expected to take ownership of their work product and to approach each assignment with care, precision, and intellectual honesty.

Core Responsibilities

• Analyze each case independently, with close attention to factual nuance, procedural posture, governing law, and practical consequences
• Draft pleadings, motions, and correspondence that are legally sound, strategically purposeful, and tailored to the specific case—not recycled or routine
• Apply structured legal reasoning to identify strengths, weaknesses, risks, and alternatives before advocating a position
• Assist in developing case strategy that reflects client objectives, judicial realities, and long-term implications
• Communicate clearly and candidly with supervising attorneys, including raising concerns, identifying gaps, and proposing solutions
• Maintain high standards of preparation, accuracy, and professionalism in all written and oral advocacy

What We Value

• Sound judgment over reflexive advocacy
• Thoughtful analysis over speed for its own sake
• Candor and integrity over telling clients (or colleagues) what they want to hear
• Precision in writing and reasoning
• A willingness to revise, refine, and improve work product in pursuit of excellence

What This Role Is — and Is Not

This role is for attorneys who:

• Take responsibility for the quality and substance of their work
• Are comfortable being challenged on their reasoning and assumptions
• Understand that not every argument should be made, even if it is available
• View feedback as part of professional development, not personal criticism

This role is not for attorneys who:

• Rely on templates without understanding their purpose
• Default to standard positions without case-specific analysis
• Measure success solely by volume or speed
• Expect supervision to replace independent thinking

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school and licensed in Ohio
• Strong legal research and writing skills
• Ability to analyze complex issues and articulate reasoning clearly
• Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to quality

Prior experience in family law and/or litigation is preferred, but intellectual rigor and sound judgment are essential.

Our Approach

We approach every matter deliberately and intentionally. Associates are not expected to know everything, but they are expected to think carefully, ask good questions, and engage meaningfully with the work. Training here is rigorous and hands-on, with an emphasis on developing judgment—not just completing tasks.

Compensation

Compensation for this position is competitive and commensurate with experience, skill, and demonstrated judgment. The expected salary range for this role is $70,000-$90,000 with final compensation determined based on qualifications and prior experience.

We value quality, reasoning, and professional growth. Compensation reflects the level of responsibility entrusted to the role and the standards expected of our attorneys.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $70,000.00 - $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person