Job Description
Job DetailsLevel: ExperiencedJob Location: LOS ANGELES, CA 90025Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $40.00 - $60.00 HourlyTravel Percentage: NoneJob Shift: DayJob Category: AccountingAbout BD&J
Based in Los Angeles, BD&J is California’s leading personal injury law firm, having recovered over $2 billion for our clients. Our success is built on trust, dedication, accountability, and exceptional results.
We are currently seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Accountant to join our Finance & Accounting team. This role plays a critical part in maintaining financial integrity, safeguarding client funds, and supporting the firm’s continued growth within a high-volume contingency fee environment.
Position Overview
The Senior Accountant is responsible for overseeing day-to-day accounting operations with a primary focus on client trust (IOLTA) accounting, settlement accounting, revenue recognition, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance in accordance with California State Bar requirements.
This position ensures financial accuracy, protects client trust funds, and maintains audit-ready records while supporting operational and strategic decision-making across the firm.
Responsibilities Include
Client Trust (IOLTA) Accounting
Maintain accurate books and records for Client Trust Accounts in compliance with State Bar regulations
Perform monthly three-way trust reconciliations, including:
Bank balance reconciliation
Client trust liability ledger
Trust account register
Maintain client and matter-level trust subledgers
Ensure strict separation of operating and client trust funds
Investigate and resolve trust discrepancies in a timely manner
Maintain documentation supporting compliance and audit readiness
Settlement & Disbursement Accounting
Record and reconcile settlement proceeds received into trust accounts
Prepare settlement statements and disbursement schedules
Accurately account for:
Attorney contingency fees
Advanced client costs
Medical provider liens
Case-related expenses
Net client proceeds
Process trust disbursements to clients and third parties
Transfer earned attorney fees from Trust to Operating accounts in accordance with executed settlement statements
Revenue & Cost Accounting
Track and reconcile advanced client costs and case cost recoveries
Record earned contingency fee revenue
Monitor reimbursement and recovery activity
Maintain accurate case cost asset balances
Lien & Payable Management
Track medical provider liens and settlement-related obligations
Maintain accurate payable balances by case
Monitor lien reductions and negotiated settlements
Coordinate timely payment of settlement obligations
General Ledger & Financial Reporting
Maintain and reconcile general ledger accounts
Prepare monthly journal entries and account reconciliations
Support month-end and year-end close processes
Assist in preparation of:
Financial statements
Trust liability reports
WIP and case cost aging reports
Analyze financial variances and provide recommendations
Compliance & Internal Controls
Ensure adherence to firm policies and regulatory requirements
Maintain financial records in accordance with retention standards
Support internal and external audits
Recommend process improvements and internal control enhancements
Ensure proper approval and documentation for all disbursements
Skills & Requirements
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
CPA designation preferred
Minimum 5+ years of accounting experience
Prior law firm accounting experience strongly preferred
Experience working within a contingency fee-based environment preferred
Client trust (IOLTA) accounting experience highly desirable
Strong knowledge of GAAP
Understanding of legal trust accounting principles
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting systems
Experience with legal practice management software preferred
Core Competencies
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
Strong analytical and reconciliation skills
Ability to manage highly confidential financial information
Excellent organizational and time management abilities
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
We Offer an Excellent Compensation Package Including
Guaranteed competitive compensation
Performance-based bonus opportunities
401(k) plan
80 hours of vacation during the first year of employment
Paid holidays
Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
Supplemental insurance options
Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
At BD&J, we have a clear vision: to be the place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come, stay, and do their best work. We pride ourselves on bringing the best results to our clients and know our company runs on the hard work and dedication of our passionate and creative employees.
BD&J is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
BD&J is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer dedicated to a policy of compliance with all federal, state, and local laws regarding nondiscrimination in employment. No questions included in our application process are intended to secure information to be used for unlawful purposes.
Consistent with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), applicants may request accommodations needed to participate in the application process.
Qualifications