Chief Operating Officer

About Laughlin Legal

Laughlin Legal, PC is a prominent family law firm based in California, serving a sophisticated clientele including founders, venture capitalists, technology leaders, entrepreneurs, physicians, professional athletes, and others primarily in Silicon Valley and throughout the state. Their cases often involve complex financial matters such as executive compensation, founder equity, private equity, closely held businesses, international issues, and contentious custody disputes.

Over the last thirteen years, Laughlin Legal has become one of the fastest-growing family law firms in California with an annual revenue growth rate between 25% and 50%. This success stems from their commitment to excellence, innovative practices, investment in exceptional talent, and a supportive, collaborative workplace culture that values work-life balance. They believe success does not require burnout and encourage a manageable billable hours target of 1,400 hours annually for attorneys to allow time for personal and family pursuits.

Role Summary

This executive leadership opportunity involves partnering strategically with the firm's leadership to drive operational excellence, lead personnel development, oversee technology integration, and guide long-term growth initiatives. The Chief Operating Officer will have significant influence over the firm's strategic direction and be instrumental in building an organization that redefines family law practice standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership and strategic planning aligned with firm goals.
• Recruit, retain, and nurture outstanding attorneys and professional staff.
• Coach and mentor associates to foster leadership and manage performance.
• Enhance every facet of the client service experience.
• Optimize the use of Clio software, leveraging its full capabilities firm-wide.
• Design and implement scalable systems, workflows, and operational best practices.
• Lead deployment of artificial intelligence and automation technologies to improve efficiency.
• Coordinate marketing and business development efforts.
• Manage financial operations including budgeting, billing, collections, profitability, and key performance metrics.
• Develop and execute strategic growth and expansion plans.
• Assist in shaping the firm's future leadership and partnership structure.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum of five years in executive leadership roles within successful law firms.
• Proven track record building high-performance teams and scalable legal operations.
• Strong expertise with Clio software; Clio Certified Consultant or Partner experience highly desirable.
• Robust financial, operational, and business management skills.
• Experience implementing AI and technology solutions to boost operational efficiency and client satisfaction.
• Exceptional emotional intelligence, leadership, judgment, and communication abilities.
• Entrepreneurial spirit with a deep commitment to quality and organizational excellence.
• Passion for developing people and cultivating a thriving workplace culture.
• Excellent professional references and stable employment history.

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary ranging from $260,000 to $300,000 annually, depending on experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k), and life insurance.
• Three weeks of paid vacation.
• Thirteen paid holidays.
• Sick leave benefits.

Work Culture and Philosophy

Laughlin Legal aims to foster an environment where professionals excel in their careers without compromising their personal lives. They emphasize innovation, kindness, accountability, and excellence, proving that a law firm can be both highly successful and deeply human. Their sustained growth over more than a decade reflects this harmonious approach.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a résumé and cover letter detailing their interest in this leadership opportunity.