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3L Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summer associates are typically selected during the fall recruitment process at the start of their 2L year, working at the firm between a student's 2L and 3L years. For out-of-state students who will ...

Summer associates are typically selected during the fall recruitment process at the start of their 2L year, working at the firm between a student's 2L and 3L years. For out-of-state students who will ...

Associate Scientist, Bioproduction Newark, CA | Full-Time ATUM is a leading bioengineering solution ... Lead the setup, inoculation, and maintenance of suspension culture bioreactors (ranging from 3L to ...

Recruiting Coordinator

Washington, DC ยท Hybrid

$22.75 - $30.25/hr

Partner with Recruiting & HR Manager to plan and coordinate all aspects of 1L, 2L, 3L, lateral attorney, and support staff recruiting; Manage summer associate, lateral attorney, and support staff job ...

... AMBR systems, 3L/10L bioreactors) * Perform mammalian cell culture experiments using aseptic ... In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other ...

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3L Associate information

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$9

$19

$31

How much do 3l associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for 3l associate in the United States is $19.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between 3L Associate vs Law Clerk?

Aspect3L AssociateLaw Clerk
Required CredentialsJ.D. candidate, typically in final yearJ.D. student or recent graduate, often before passing the bar
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, often client-facingCourts, law firms, legal research settings
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporate legal teamsCourts, law firms, government agencies

In summary, a 3L Associate is a law student in their final year working in law firms or corporate legal departments, focusing on client work and legal research. A Law Clerk is typically a law student or recent graduate working in courts or law firms, mainly assisting with legal research and case preparation. While both roles involve legal research and are often held by students or recent grads, their work environments and responsibilities differ.

What are the typical responsibilities and expectations for a 3L Associate during their first year at a law firm?

As a 3L Associate entering a law firm, you can expect to handle a variety of tasks ranging from legal research and drafting memoranda to assisting with depositions and preparing case files for court proceedings. You'll often work closely with senior associates and partners, gaining exposure to client meetings and developing practical skills in your practice area. The role requires strong attention to detail, time management, and the ability to manage competing deadlines. Additionally, you'll be encouraged to seek feedback and participate in professional development opportunities to set the foundation for career advancement.

What is a 3L Associate?

A 3L Associate typically refers to a law student in their third and final year of law school (3L) who is working in a legal position, often as a summer associate or part-time law clerk at a law firm. These positions provide hands-on experience in legal research, drafting documents, and observing courtroom proceedings. The role is designed to give students valuable practice before they graduate and prepare for the bar exam. 3L Associates often use these opportunities to secure full-time employment after graduation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3L Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3L Associate, you need strong legal research and writing skills, a solid understanding of substantive law, and progression toward a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and proficiency in document management systems, are typically required. Outstanding time management, attention to detail, and effective communication help distinguish top candidates. These skills ensure high-quality legal work, efficient client service, and strong performance during the transition from law student to practicing attorney.
What cities are hiring for 3L Associate jobs? Cities with the most 3L Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3L jobs? The most popular types of 3L jobs are:
What states have the most 3L Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for 3L Associate jobs include:
Infographic showing various 3L Associate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,549 per year, or $19 per hour.
Entry-Level (3L) Tax Associate

Entry-Level (3L) Tax Associate

Fenwick & West LLP

Santa Monica, CA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Description Summary:

Fenwick is seeking a 3L who is interested in a career in tax law to join our tax group in our Silicon Valley or Seattle office (consideration will also be given to applications for New York office and Santa Monica office).

Job Description:

Fenwick has one of the nation's leading tax practices, with broad expertise across international and domestic tax planning and controversy, including litigation, transfer pricing, M&A, and joint ventures. The tax group's sophisticated practice serves a diverse company focused client base ranging from Fortune 500 companies to emerging blockchain startups, based all over the United States and around the world.

To apply, please complete our online application and submit a cover letter, current resume, and law school transcript. Cover letters should state office interest. Applicants will be evaluated holistically on the merits of their application materials and interviews.


Benefits and Compensation Details:

At Fenwick, we believe that our partners and employees are our most important asset. Helping you and your families achieve and maintain good health - physical, emotional, and financial - is the reason we offer a comprehensive benefit program. We provide benefits to eligible employees under plans such as Healthcare, Life Insurance, Health Savings Accounts, Flexible Spending Accounts, and Wellbeing.

The anticipated range for this position is:

$225,000 - $225,000

Depending on the role, the actual base salary offered may depend upon a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job.

A discretionary bonus for eligible employees may also be available based on performance. Additional information about employee eligibility for benefits and discretionary bonus will be made available upon request.