Staff Accountant

About the role

Sweet James Accident Attorneys is a rapidly growing, AI-powered personal injury firm based in Orange County, CA. In less than a decade, we've built a nationally recognized brand and a proprietary AI and automation stack that make us one of the largest and most efficient providers of legal services in the country.

Our growth runs on a culture of excellence, compassion, and results: Our team is committed to exceptional client experience and to supporting one another in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. We invest in our people, encourage professional growth, and provide meaningful opportunities to build rewarding careers while making a real impact in our clients' lives.

Pay Scale

$80,000-$90,000 per year (base pay)

Work arrangement: On-site

The Role

As we continue expanding our team, we are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and sharp Staff Accountant to support our fast-paced and high-performing legal team.

This is more than just a support role - it's an opportunity to build a long-term career with a respected and rapidly growing law firm that values growth, teamwork, accountability, and professional development.

If you thrive in a collaborative environment, enjoy meaningful work that makes an impact, and want to be part of a team that truly values its employees, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate and timely financial records for assigned entities, including the firm's marketing and real estate operations.
• Prepare and post monthly journal entries and assist with month-end and year-end close activities.
• Perform monthly account reconciliations and investigate discrepancies to ensure accuracy and completeness of financial records.
• Prepare monthly financial reports and supporting schedules for assigned entities.
• Assist with budget preparation, forecasting, and variance analysis between actual and budgeted results.
• Process and reconcile accounts payable and accounts receivable transactions, ensuring timely payments, collections, and proper documentation.
• Support payroll processing activities and related accounting entries and reporting.
• Assist in maintaining trust account records and ensure compliance with applicable regulations and firm policies.
• Collaborate with internal departments to support billing, collections, and financial reporting needs.
• Support the General Ledger team during monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting cycles.
• Assist with annual audits, tax preparation activities, and requests from external auditors and consultants.
• Conduct financial analyses and prepare reports to support operational and strategic decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), internal controls, and company policies.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and increased efficiencies within accounting operations.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of financial, employee, and company information.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by the Financial Controller and Chief Financial Officer.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of four (4) years of progressive accounting experience.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and account reconciliation processes.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis.
• Experience with accounting and ERP systems.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience with QuickBooks.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to prioritize competing deadlines and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, discretion, and confidentiality.

Preferred

• Experience in a law firm, professional services, healthcare, or multi-entity business environment.
• Experience with NetSuite or similar accounting software.
• Experience supporting audits, payroll accounting, and financial reporting processes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of GAAP and accounting best practices.
• Ability to analyze financial data and identify trends or discrepancies.
• Strong sense of urgency and commitment to meeting deadlines.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Commitment to accuracy, integrity, and continuous improvement.

Benefits

• Benefits package: medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• FSA or HSA option, depending on the selected medical plan
• 401(k) with 2% match after 90 days
• Paid time off (PTO) policy and paid holidays
• Ongoing mentorship, leadership support, and professional development and career advancement opportunities

• At Sweet James, we don't just offer jobs - we build careers. If you're ready to join a firm that values excellence with an unwavering passion for life changing results, we'd love to hear from you.
• Stay safe: We will never ask for payment or banking information during the hiring process.