About the Role

Shawna L. Stevens PLLC is seeking an Associate Attorney to join our Fredericksburg family law practice. As we continue to grow, we need a skilled attorney who can manage a diverse caseload of family law matters with professionalism, empathy, and strong legal instincts. This is an opportunity to work in a focused, collegial environment where your work has a direct and meaningful impact on clients navigating some of the most significant moments of their lives.

The right candidate will be comfortable working both independently and collaboratively, building client relationships, and appearing regularly in the courts serving Spotsylvania County, Stafford County, King George County, Caroline County, and the City of Fredericksburg.

Newly admitted attorneys are encouraged to apply. Shawna has practiced Virginia family law for more than 20 years and provides direct, hands-on mentorship. If you are a 2026 graduate awaiting bar results, or a third-year student eligible for supervised practice, your application is welcome.

Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and litigate family law cases including divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and property division.
• Conduct client consultations, assess legal strategy, and guide clients through the legal process.
• Draft pleadings, motions, settlement agreements, and correspondence.
• Appear in court for hearings, conferences, and trials in the Fredericksburg-area circuit and general district courts.
• Negotiate settlements and participate in mediation and collaborative law proceedings where applicable.
• Maintain organized case files and communicate proactively with clients regarding case status.
• Work with supervising attorney on complex or high-conflict matters.

Required Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Admitted to the Virginia State Bar in good standing, or eligible for admission. 2026 graduates awaiting July bar results are encouraged to apply.
• No minimum years of experience. Family law experience is valued but not required.
• Working knowledge of Virginia domestic relations statutes, or the demonstrated ability to learn them quickly.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage a caseload independently while meeting deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with contested custody or high-asset divorce matters.
• Familiarity with military divorce issues (proximity to Quantico and Fort Belvoir).
• Prior experience using practice management software (e.g., MyCase or similar).
• Strong ties to the Fredericksburg, Stafford, or Spotsylvania community.

Compensation & Benefits

This role uses a productivity-based model rather than a fixed salary. You receive 50% of the fees you personally bill and collect. First-year earnings are expected in the range of $80,000 to $100,000, with no ceiling above that other than your own output.

• 50% of the fees you personally bill and collect.
• Expected first-year earnings of $80,000 to $100,000.
• Monthly draw available through your first year, credited against your share of collections, so your income is steady while you build a caseload.
• Malpractice insurance and Virginia State Bar dues paid by the firm.
• Professional development support, including CLE reimbursement.
• Direct mentorship from an attorney with 20+ years in Virginia family law.

Work Environment

This is a full-time, in-office position based at our Fredericksburg office at 307 Lafayette Blvd, Suite 200, Fredericksburg, VA 22401. Regular court appearances in the surrounding counties are expected.

How to Apply

Please send your resume, a writing sample (5–10 pages), and a brief cover letter describing your family law experience and interest in this role to [email protected]. Use the subject line: Associate Attorney Application – [Your Name]. All inquiries are handled confidentially.