Associate Attorney (PT to start, growth into mediation role)

Associate Attorney (Part-Time to Start, Fully Remote, Growth into Mediation)
Sawyer Mediation
Location: Fully Remote (California-based)
Schedule: Part-Time to Start, with Opportunity to Grow to Full-Time
Experience: 02 years
Compensation: Salary commensurate with experience
About Sawyer Mediation
Sawyer Mediation is a boutique, family law-focused mediation firm dedicated to helping clients navigate divorce, custody, support, and other family matters with dignity, clarity, and compassion. Based in San Francisco and serving clients throughout California, we are committed to non-adversarial dispute resolution rooted in integrity, emotional intelligence, and client empowerment.
We believe that resolving family conflict outside of court leads to more sustainable outcomes, and we work with individuals and families to achieve just that. Our team values emotional awareness, cultural competency, thoughtful communication, and a forward-thinking approach to client service.
Position Summary
Sawyer Mediation is seeking a California-licensed attorney with 02 years of experience who is enthusiastic about family law and interested in building a career in mediation and alternative dispute resolution.
This role will begin as a part-time associate attorney position, with the opportunity to grow into a full-time role over time depending on firm needs, performance, and fit. To start, this position will focus on supporting the firms lead mediator and case work behind the scenes rather than independently conducting mediation sessions. Responsibilities will include case preparation, drafting, client communication, legal research, and follow-up support.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to learn the mediation process from the inside, receive mentorship and hands-on training, and potentially grow into conducting mediation sessions in the future based on experience, training, and demonstrated ability.
This is a fully remote position with flexible hours. We welcome candidates located anywhere in California.
Key Responsibilities
Support the lead mediator with case preparation, documentation, and follow-up
Draft marital settlement agreements, parenting plans, and other family law-related documents
Conduct legal research and prepare case summaries, memoranda, and client communications
Participate in internal strategy sessions and case reviews
Communicate with clients in a professional, empathetic, and solution-oriented manner
Contribute to firm development projects, including content creation, outreach, and client education
Qualifications
Active member of the California State Bar in good standing
02 years of legal experience
Family law experience or coursework preferred
Strong interest in mediation and non-adversarial approaches to family law
Excellent legal writing, research, and communication skills
Professionalism, discretion, and emotional intelligence in working with sensitive matters
Self-motivated, organized, and comfortable working independently in a remote setting
Tech-savvy and able to adapt to virtual practice tools
Preferred but Not Required
Mediation training or certification, completed or in progress
Experience with practice management software or other virtual law firm tools
What We Offer
Part-time position to start, with room to grow to full-time
Flexible scheduling to support work-life balance
Fully remote work within a collaborative and supportive team culture
Mentorship and growth opportunities in family law and mediation
Meaningful client interaction and substantive responsibility
A values-driven, inclusive workplace committed to access and equity in family law
Compensation commensurate with experience
To Apply
Please submit:
Resume
Brief cover letter explaining your interest in family law and mediation