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Legal Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Controller

Glendora, CA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Establish internal controls and best practices for a high-volume legal environment * Coordinate ... Controller, or senior financial management role required * Experience with legal industry ...

Controller

San Diego, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

TITLE: Controller/VP Accounting INDUSTRY: Hospitality / Real Estate LOCATION: San Diego, CA (more ... Develop and maintain financial controls and systems to ensure accuracy across multiple legal ...

The Controller reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The following positions ... Voluntary benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance ...

The Controller reports directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The following positions ... Voluntary benefits include pet insurance, legal insurance, accident and critical illness insurance ...

Controller

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

The Controller will lead all day-to-day finance operations in a nonprofit environment, including ... Complies with federal, state, and local legal requirements by studying existing and new legislation ...

Controller

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$145K - $175K/yr

... Legal on deal structuring. * Lead the accounting function end-to-end , including general ledger ... At Fieldwire, we're looking for our next Controller to have the following skills and experiences:

What You Will Bring to ChargePoint Record-to-Report (R2R) / Controllership * Own the global ... Support tax planning initiatives in collaboration with Legal and Finance leadership, including ...

Controller

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$150K/yr

Controller DEPARTMENT: Finance REPORTS TO: General Manager FLSA STATUS: Exempt SALARY: $150,000 ... and legal documents. * Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers ...

Controller

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$225K/yr

The Controller will be responsible for financial reporting, internal controls, audit management ... Legal to support business initiatives * Analyze financial trends and communicate results, risks ...

Corporate Controller Location: Santa Clara, CA (Hybrid: One day per week onsite) Salary: depending ... Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes across multiple legal enities.

Corporate Controller Location: Santa Clara, CA (Hybrid: One day per week onsite) Salary: depending ... Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes across multiple legal enities.

We are looking for an experienced Assistant Controller to join our organization. Qualifications ... Responsible for preparing and issuing monthly financial statements for multiple legal entities

Overview Esri is searching for an experienced Corporate Controller to manage the Accounting ... Partner cross-functionally with FP&A, Legal, HR, Procurement, and other business unit leaders to ...

The Controller will be responsible for directing the fiscal functions of the organization and ... Maintains all appropriate financial and statistical records to meet legal, regulatory and ...

Controller

Glendale, CA · On-site

$165K/yr

We are looking for an experienced Assistant Controller to join our organization. Qualifications ... Responsible for preparing and issuing monthly financial statements for multiple legal entities

Controller

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150K - $230K/yr

Partnering cross-functionally with Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Legal, and People to ... in a Controller, Assistant Controller, or equivalent leadership role * Strong knowledge of U.S.

Controller I

Alameda, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Controller I Agency Overview Felton Institute responds to the needs of our community by providing ... Ensure payroll operates in compliance with federal, state, and local legal requirements.

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Legal Controller information

Do I need a CPA to become a controller?

A CPA is not strictly required to become a controller, but it can enhance credibility and demonstrate accounting expertise. Many controllers have accounting degrees and relevant experience; certifications like CPA or CMA can improve job prospects and professional development.

What is the highest paying job in the legal field?

In the legal field, the highest paying roles are often senior positions such as law firm partners, chief legal officers, or general counsels, with chief legal officers typically earning the highest salaries. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often a background in corporate law, with compensation frequently exceeding several hundred thousand dollars annually.

What are Legal Controllers?

Legal Controllers are professionals responsible for overseeing the legal and regulatory compliance of an organization's financial operations. They ensure that company practices align with current laws, manage legal risks, and often coordinate with both the legal and finance departments. Legal Controllers may also prepare legal documents, review contracts, and help develop policies to prevent violations. Their role is crucial in helping businesses avoid legal disputes and maintain good standing with authorities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Legal Controller, and why are they important?

To excel as a Legal Controller, you need a strong background in accounting, finance, and legal compliance, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in finance, accounting, or law, as well as professional certifications like CPA or ACCA. Familiarity with ERP systems, financial reporting software, and compliance management tools is typically required. Excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex legal and financial information clearly are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate financial oversight, risk mitigation, and adherence to regulatory standards within an organization.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Legal controllers typically do not earn $1,000,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with top executives, successful entrepreneurs, hedge fund managers, or specialized professionals in finance and technology. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and significant responsibility, and compensation may include bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing.

What is the difference between Legal Controller vs Legal Manager?

AspectLegal ControllerLegal Manager
Required CredentialsLegal degree, CPA or equivalent, financial certificationsLegal degree, bar admission, legal certifications
Work EnvironmentFinance departments, corporate officesLegal departments, law firms, corporate legal teams
Employer & Industry UsageFinancial institutions, corporations, multinational companiesLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentFinancial oversight, compliance, legal financial managementLegal strategy, legal compliance, team management

The Legal Controller primarily focuses on financial and legal compliance within organizations, often working closely with finance teams. In contrast, the Legal Manager oversees legal strategies, manages legal teams, and handles legal risk. Both roles require legal credentials, but their focus areas and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by a Legal Controller in managing compliance across multiple jurisdictions?

Legal Controllers often oversee compliance for organizations operating in several regions, which can present challenges due to varying laws, regulations, and reporting standards. Staying up-to-date with frequent legal changes and ensuring consistent compliance across all branches requires strong organization and proactive communication with local teams. It also involves regular collaboration with external counsel and internal stakeholders to anticipate risks and implement best practices. Adapting to evolving regulatory environments is a key aspect of the role.

What does a legal controller do?

A legal controller manages the financial and administrative aspects of a legal department or law firm, including budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance. They often oversee billing, accounting systems, and ensure adherence to legal and financial regulations, requiring strong organizational and accounting skills. The role may also involve coordinating with legal staff and using financial software tools.
What cities in California are hiring for Legal Controller jobs? Cities in California with the most Legal Controller job openings:

$80K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

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Job description

Controller 

Job Description

Well-established, high-volume law firm with more than 1,000 active cases at any given time, seeking an experienced, strategic-minded Controller to lead our financial operations and systems development.

The Controller will provide oversight, strategic direction, and focus on big-picture financial optimization while our accounting department continues handling daily transactional work. The Controller must have experience and understanding with billing in QuickBooks to assist as needed.

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement financial management systems to improve record-keeping, track case workload metrics, and maximize revenue recovery
  • Conduct comprehensive audits of firm financial records, including payroll accuracy, client trust account compliance, and credit card billing to ensure complete cost and revenue capture
  • Oversee and support the Accounting Manager in accounts payable and accounts receivable operations
  • Prepare monthly and quarterly financial reports and analysis for firm management
  • Ensure compliance with accounting standards and California State Bar requirements for law firm financial management, including trust account regulations
  • Identify and execute opportunities for improved financial efficiency and revenue optimization
  • Develop financial forecasting models and budgets
  • Establish internal controls and best practices for a high-volume legal environment
  • Coordinate with external CPA and auditors for tax preparation and annual audits
  • Analyze financial data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improved profitability
  • Support managing attorney with financial decision-making and strategic planning

Qualifications

  • Required: Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
  • CPA certification strongly preferred
  • 7+ years of progressive accounting experience required
  • 3+ years in a Controller, Assistant Controller, or senior financial management role required
  • Experience with legal industry accounting strongly preferred (trust accounts, client billing, IOLTA compliance)
  • Proven track record implementing financial systems and process improvements
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail
  • Experience with high-volume transaction environments
  • Proficiency with QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel (advanced Excel skills preferred)
  • Excellent communication skills for presenting financial information to non-financial stakeholders
  • Ability to work independently and prioritize multiple strategic initiatives
  • Experience with legal practice management software a plus

About Our Firm

The Law Offices of Liddle & Liddle is a well-established, high-volume landlord-tenant litigation firm based in Glendora, CA, with over 1,300 active cases. We specialize exclusively in landlord-tenant law, giving our team deep expertise in a focused practice area. As we continue to grow, we're building out the financial infrastructure to match — and this role is central to that effort. 

Company Description

Liddle & Liddle was founded by Layne and George Liddle over 35 years ago and the firm has become well known in the field of Landlord-Tenant law for being successful and reliable. Our office represents everyone from small landlords, to major corporations, to management companies, to indigent tenants. We handle all aspects of the disputes that arise between a landlord and tenant. The firm has continued to grow and evolve with the changing legal landscape. We are looking for candidates as we expand to meet the increased demand for our services.