Associate Attorney (in ethics!)

Do you want to learn a unique practice area? Does being part of a start-up law firm excite you? Cha Law Ethics is your opportunity to be a part of building a niche firm helping your fellow attorneys going through challenging times. We consider it a great honor to represent our fellow legal professionals. There also is a great sense of responsibility. When clients seek guidance, support, or representation, our unique wisdom goes beyond providing a temporary bandage. We share solutions transferrable to other areas of their practice and lives. We bring that commitment to our clients because ethics is everyone’s business. While the prosecution focuses on punishment or disbarment, we are eager to put clients on the path to rehabilitation. To err is human; to learn, is divine. It is how we respond to mistakes that truly defines us as individuals.

POSITION SUMMARY: This role’s primary responsibility is representing both established and aspiring attorneys, as clients of our firm, in applications and disciplinary proceedings before state bar associations. The Associate Attorney plays a pivotal role in providing effective legal counsel and defense strategies, ensuring that attorneys navigating ethical matters receive fair treatment and protection of their professional rights.

WHAT YOU’LL DO (Essential Functions):

Client Representation:

Provide legal advice and guidance to attorneys facing disciplinary proceedings, ensuring they fully comprehend their rights, obligations, and potential consequences Advise attorneys on ethical obligations, professional responsibility, and compliance with state bar association rules.
Maintain regular communication with clients throughout the entire process, including the application/disciplinary process, providing timely updates, explaining case progress, and addressing any concerns or questions.
Represent attorneys in proceedings by attending disciplinary hearings, oral arguments, and related events before state bar associations. Present compelling arguments, skillfully cross-examine witnesses, and introduce evidence to challenge allegations against attorneys and safeguard their professional reputations.

Case Investigation, Legal Documentation, and Presentation:

Evaluate complaints filed against attorneys by reviewing pertinent documents, conducting witness interviews, and analyzing the facts and circumstances surrounding alleged ethical violations.
Develop comprehensive defense strategies tailored to each attorney’s unique situation. Prepare persuasive legal arguments, gather evidence, and compile supporting documents to effectively defend attorneys against allegations of ethical misconduct.
Draft well-reasoned and compelling legal briefs, motions, responses, and other necessary documents required for the defense of attorneys facing disciplinary actions. Ensure all documents adhere to applicable rules and regulations.
Engage in settlement negotiations with state bar associations when appropriate, aiming for favorable resolutions that protect the interests of the attorney while ensuring compliance with ethical standards.
Collaborate closely with other attorneys and legal professionals within the firm to leverage their expertise, gather relevant information, and coordinate defense strategies.

Other:

Practice daily contemporaneous billing through Clio.
Create and maintain a positive work environment and culture.
Contribute to client-centered mission.
Other duties or projects as requested.

Qualifications and Prior Experience

Education:

Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
Active membership in good standing with the state bar association.

Experience:

3+ years of experience practicing law, preferably with a focus on legal ethics, professional responsibility, or disciplinary defense.
California State Bar experience preferred.
Familiarity with the applicable state bar association rules and regulations governing attorney conduct and ethics is preferred.

Salary plus profit-sharing bonus.  Associate base salary range: $120,000-$140,000. Sr. Associate base salary range: $150,000-$180,000.