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3L Law Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Legal Intern

Grand Prairie, TX · On-site

$23.50/hr

Associate's Degree * Bachelor's Degree * Master's Degree * Doctorate Degree 02 Are you currently a student enrolled in 2L or 3L in an ABA-accredited law school or recent graduate of an ABA-accredited ...

Law Clerk

Dallas, TX · On-site

... to an associate position upon passing the bar. Primary Job Duties: * Perform legal research ... Must be enrolled in Law School, Ideal candidate is a 3L student.

New

Law Clerk

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

... to an associate position upon passing the bar. Primary Job Duties: * Perform legal research ... Requirements Must be enrolled in Law School, Ideal candidate is a 3L student.

New

Law Clerk

Dallas, TX · On-site

... to an associate position upon passing the bar. Primary Job Duties: * Perform legal research ... Requirements Must be enrolled in Law School, Ideal candidate is a 3L student.

New

... law school. 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 ...

... law school. 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 ...

Description Hall & Evans, LLC, is currently seeking a Fall Associate to join our Kansas City, MO ... Current law students enrolled in an accredited university program * 2L and 3L students are ...

Hall & Evans, LLC, is currently seeking a Fall Associate to join our Kansas City, MO office. This ... Current law students enrolled in an accredited university program * 2L and 3L students are ...

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3L Law Associate information

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$26K

$53.7K

$82K

How much do 3l law associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3l law associate in the United States is $53,711.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3L law associate?

A 3L Law Associate is a law student in their third and final year of law school, often participating in internships, externships, or associate programs at law firms to gain practical experience. These positions allow students to apply their legal knowledge in real-world settings, assist attorneys, and prepare for the bar exam. The role typically involves legal research, drafting documents, and sometimes limited client interaction under supervision. Completing a 3L associate position can enhance job prospects after graduation and provide valuable insights into specific areas of law.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a 3L law associate expect during their final year before graduation?

As a 3L Law Associate, you can expect to take on more substantive legal work, such as drafting motions, conducting complex legal research, and assisting in trial preparation or transactional matters. You'll often work closely with senior associates and partners, gaining exposure to client meetings and possibly managing smaller projects independently. The workload tends to increase in both complexity and expectation for autonomy, providing valuable experience and feedback ahead of full-time practice. This stage is also an opportunity to explore different practice areas and demonstrate your abilities for potential post-graduate employment offers.

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

To thrive as a 3L Law Associate, you need a solid understanding of legal research, writing, and analysis, typically developed through completion of most law school coursework and relevant internships or clerkships. Proficiency with legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and familiarity with case management systems, is commonly expected. Exceptional attention to detail, strong time management, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities ensure high-quality legal work, efficient case handling, and positive client and team relationships, all of which are vital for a successful legal career.

Do big law firms hire 3L law associates?

Big law firms often hire 3L law students as summer associates or entry-level associates, especially if they demonstrate strong academic performance and relevant skills. Hiring decisions typically depend on law school performance, interview performance, and the firm's hiring needs, with some firms preferring to hire after graduation or during the final year of law school.
More about 3L Law Associate jobs

What cities are hiring for 3L Law Associate jobs?

Cities with the most 3L Law Associate job openings:

What states have the most 3L Law Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for 3L Law Associate jobs include:

Infographic showing various 3L Law Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,711 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

2027 Summer Associate - Richmond Office

Sands Anderson

Richmond, VA

$2.4K/wk

Temporary

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

2027 Summer Associate | Government Group

Schools & Education Team

Location: Richmond, VA

Practice Area: Government Group, Schools & Education Team

Candidate Profile: Rising 3L law student for Summer 2027 with an interest in education law

Positions Open: 1

Pay: $2,400.00 per week

Sands Anderson is a full-service law firm serving businesses, governments, schools, and individuals throughout Virginia and North Carolina. Our attorneys are known for delivering practical solutions, deep industry knowledge, and exceptional client service. Within our Government Group, the Schools & Education Team partners with public school divisions, higher education institutions, and educational organizations on a wide range of legal matters impacting the education sector.

Sands Anderson is seeking a highly motivated rising 3L law student to join our Schools & Education Team as a 2027 Summer Associate. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience representing educational institutions and public entities while working closely with experienced attorneys in one of the firm's most established practice areas.

Summer Associate Experience

Summer Associates will be integrated into client work and exposed to a variety of legal issues affecting schools and educational organizations, including:

  • Education law and regulatory compliance
  • Student and employee matters
  • Governance and policy issues
  • Employment and labor matters in the education setting
  • Constitutional and administrative law issues
  • Litigation support and dispute resolution
  • Special education and student rights matters
Responsibilities and Qualifications
  • Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda
  • Assist with drafting policies, agreements, and other legal documents
  • Support attorneys in litigation and administrative proceedings
  • Attend meetings, hearings, depositions, and client presentations when appropriate
  • Participate in professional development and networking opportunities
  • Rising third-year law student, 3L for the 2027 to 2028 academic year
  • Strong academic credentials and excellent research and writing skills
  • Demonstrated interest in education law, public sector law, government representation, or related fields
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Commitment to client service, professionalism, and teamwork
  • Desire to practice law in Richmond, VA
  • Commitment to sit for the July 2028 Virginia Bar exam
Why Sands Anderson?

Our Summer Associate Program provides meaningful legal experience, mentorship from attorneys across practice areas, and opportunities to build lasting professional relationships. Participants gain valuable insight into the practice of law while contributing to real client matters that impact schools, students, educators, and communities throughout the region.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit a resume, law school transcript, and writing sample to Liz Coleman by email at lcoleman@sandsanderson.com

Sands Anderson is committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative workplace and encourages applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Join us and explore a rewarding legal career serving the institutions that shape our communities