Associate Lawyer - Family Law

Shulman & Partners LLP is a high-performing, human-centered family law firm driven by a singular vision: Do Good, Make an Impact. Our mission is simple and meaningful: We are a Human Solution to a Human Problem. We deliver top expertise, skill, and resources in an authentically caring, human, and empathetic way.

As our firm continues to grow, we are seeking an Associate Family Lawyer with 1 to 6 years of proven experience to join our Ottawa office. This is an opportunity to build your career in a supportive and progressive firm that values excellence, accountability, mentorship, and meaningful impact.

This position requires a high level of professionalism, diligence, discretion, sound judgment, and strong client service. The ideal candidate is committed to mastering their craft, progressing matters strategically, and delivering excellent outcomes while contributing to a collaborative, team-based environment.

You will be supported through our Mentorship-Based Model, which includes structured file reviews, intentional development, and guidance from senior lawyers to accelerate competency and confidence.

Responsibilities

• Manage family law matters appropriate to level of experience, with mentorship support as required.
• Apply working knowledge of the Family Law Rules and relevant legislation to advance matters strategically.
• Conduct legal research, interpret legislation, identify relevant precedent, and apply findings to support strong case strategy.
• Draft high-quality court and settlement materials, including pleadings, motion materials, conference briefs, affidavits, mediation briefs, and settlement documentation.
• Draft domestic contracts and agreements, including separation agreements, minutes of settlement, and supporting documentation.
• Prepare and review financial documents, including Financial Statements and Net Family Property statements, as required by experience level.
• Maintain consistent, professional communication with clients to ensure they are informed, supported, and clear on next steps and legal options.
• Attend and participate in mediations, arbitrations, conferences, motions, and trials as required by file needs and experience level.
• Coordinate with assigned law clerks and administrative support to ensure deadlines are met and files are progressed efficiently.
• Participate in task-based work distribution and follow instructions with appropriate oversight and accountability.
• Engage fully in the firm’s Mentorship-Based Model, including active implementation of feedback and development goals.

Requirements

• Client Service Excellence: Strong client presence, professionalism, and the ability to build trust and manage expectations while advocating effectively and achieving favourable results.
• Strong Written and Verbal Communication: Ability to communicate clearly and persuasively with clients, opposing counsel, the court, and internal stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail: High standard for accuracy and thoroughness when reviewing evidence, drafting documents, and managing financial disclosure.
• Sound Judgment and Strategic Thinking: Ability to evaluate complex situations, assess risk, and recommend clear, practical legal solutions.
• Commitment to Growth: Solid foundation in family law practice and the drive to continuously improve legal skills and performance.
• Professional Accountability: Strong time management, responsiveness, and reliability in meeting deadlines and progressing matters independently.
• LSO Standing: Licensed and in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario.

Benefits

• Formal mentorship and direct senior lawyer guidance. Associates typically progress to greater file independence within their first year.
• Broad exposure to family law matter types from early in your tenure.
• Extended health, dental, and mental health benefits.
• Generous vacation & PTO policy.
• Compensation aligned with internal bands for your experience level.
• Quarterly and annual bonus opportunities based on individual and firm performance.
• Hybrid work available upon successful completion of probation period.
• CPD financial support.
• Coverage for LSO membership fees and LawPRO insurance premiums.
• Structured annual billing targets with clear thresholds and transparent expectations, tracked through a modern practice management system.

Shulman & Partners LLP does not work with recruitment agencies or accept unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions via emails for this or any open role.

Shulman & Partners LLP uses artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, and/or select candidates during the recruitment process for this position. AI tools may be used during interviews for note-taking purposes only. All hiring decisions are made by humans.