Job Brief:

Reports To: Principal / Practice Leader – Family Law
Location: Parramatta, NSW
Employment Type: Full-time

Salary: 100,000 or above (depending on experience)

The Senior Family Law Case Manager is responsible for assisting with the provision of legal services to clients in matters arising under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) Rules, and associated NSW legislation. The role involves assisting with the management of a caseload of family law files, delivery of high-quality legal research for the purposes of assisting the firm with legal advice, court representation, and effective operation of the Family Law team.

Responsibilities:

Client Management

• Assist with new client meetings and provide timely, accurate, and practical legal research for the purposes of the provision of legal advice.
• Assist with maintaining strong client relationships, ensuring matters are progressed in a professional and empathetic manner.
• Manage client expectations and communicate regularly regarding case developments.

File and Matter Management

• Assist with managing caseloads relating to:
  • Parenting matters (custody, parenting orders, relocation disputes).
  • Property settlements and spousal maintenance.
  • Divorce applications and financial agreements.
  • Domestic violence and AVO-related issues.
• Draft and review legal documents including applications, affidavits, correspondence, consent orders, and settlement agreements.
• Prepare files for court hearings, mediations, and settlement conferences.
• Ensure compliance with relevant court rules, practice directions, and statutory deadlines.

Court Work and Advocacy

• Accompany the Family Law team with appearances before the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia in interim and final hearings, mentions, and procedural appearances.
• Assist with providing documentation and research to brief and instruct counsel where appropriate.
• Assist with engaging with independent experts such as psychologists, valuers, and accountants in support of matters.

Professional Standards and Compliance

• Adhere to the firm’s policies, procedures, and risk management framework.
• Maintain compliance with professional and ethical obligations as required by the NSW Law Society and relevant legislation.
• Ensure accurate record-keeping and billing practices in line with firm requirements.

Collaboration and Contribution

• Work collaboratively with colleagues, paralegals, and administrative staff to progress matters efficiently.
• Contribute to team meetings, knowledge sharing, and development of precedents.
• Support junior staff where required and contribute to mentoring within the practice.

Skills Required:

Qualifications and Experience

• Possess a legal background and qualifications
• At least 2-4 years work experience in the areas of family, estate and property law
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Family Law Act 1975, Child Support legislation, and FCFCOA procedures.
• Proven experience researching, preparing and running family law matters, including exposure to advocacy in court.

Skills and Attributes

• Strong legal drafting, negotiation, and advocacy skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Excellent client communication and interpersonal skills.
• High level of empathy and resilience when dealing with sensitive matters.
• Strong organisational and file management abilities.
• Proficiency in practice management systems (LEAP preferred).