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Apprentice Lawyer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Lawyer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice lawyer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice lawyer in Reston, VA is $22.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Apprentice Lawyer vs Paralegal?

AspectApprentice LawyerParalegal
Required CredentialsLaw degree (JD), bar exam eligibility, legal trainingAssociate degree or certificate in paralegal studies, no law degree required
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, courts, legal departments, often under supervision of attorneysLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, supporting attorneys
Employer & Industry UsageLegal firms, government, judiciary, training role for future lawyers

Apprentice Lawyers are individuals training to become licensed attorneys, often working under supervision while completing their legal education. Paralegals assist lawyers with legal tasks but do not require a law degree or bar exam. While both roles support legal work, Apprentice Lawyers are in a training phase aiming for licensure, whereas Paralegals are support staff with specialized training but no legal license.

What are apprentice lawyers?

Apprentice lawyers, also known as law clerks or articling students in some regions, are individuals who are training to become fully qualified attorneys. They typically work under the supervision of experienced lawyers, gaining hands-on experience in legal research, drafting documents, and assisting with cases. This apprenticeship period is a critical step in legal education and is often required before taking the bar exam or obtaining a law license. The specific duties and duration of the apprenticeship can vary depending on the jurisdiction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Lawyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Lawyer, you need a solid understanding of legal principles, strong research and writing abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in law or related field. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office, is often required. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing caseloads and interacting with clients or senior lawyers. These skills and qualities are essential for accurately supporting legal work, meeting deadlines, and building a successful legal career.

What types of tasks and responsibilities can I expect as an Apprentice Lawyer during my training period?

As an Apprentice Lawyer, you will typically assist senior lawyers with legal research, drafting documents, preparing case files, and attending client meetings or court proceedings. Your daily work may include reviewing case law, summarizing legal findings, and helping prepare briefs or contracts. You’ll also gain exposure to various legal practice areas depending on your firm, and often rotate through departments to broaden your experience. Collaboration with attorneys, paralegals, and support staff is common, and you’ll be encouraged to ask questions and seek feedback to accelerate your learning.
What are the most commonly searched types of Lawyer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Lawyer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Apprentice Lawyer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Apprentice Lawyer job openings:

$121K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

The National Gallery of Art welcomes all people to explore art, creativity, and our shared humanity. Millions of people come through our doors each year, with even more online, making us one of the most visited art museums in the world. Our renowned collection includes over 160,000 works of art, from the ancient world to today. Admission to the West and East Buildings, Sculpture Garden, special exhibitions, and public programs is always free.

Qualifications:

Basic Reuirements;

1) possess a J.D. or LL.M. degree from an accredited or pre-accredited college or university or equivalent apprentice experience as allowed per state law; and
(2) be duly licensed and authorized to practice as an attorney under the laws of any state, territory of the United States, or the District of Columbia; and
(3) be an active member of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction in good standing.

GS 13- Specialized Experience Statement: Candidates must possess at least one year of specialized experience, equivalent in responsibility to the GS-12 level in the Federal service or private sector, independently advising on trusts and estates for a large complex organization. Experience with gifts and bequests, contracts or taxes.   

GS 14- Specialized Experience Statement: Candidates must possess at least one year of specialized experience, equivalent in responsibility to the GS-13 level in the Federal service or private sector, as subject matter expert advising on trusts and estates for a large complex organization. Experience with gifts and bequests, contracts or taxes.   

OPM Qualifications Standard:

Individual Occupational Requirements: General Attorney Series 0905 Associated Group standard: None

Other Relevant Eligibility Criteria: Must be a memeber of State/DC bar association and have a J.D from an accredited law school. Documentation required.

You must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements by the closing date of this announcement.


Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education:

(1) possess a J.D. or LL.M. degree from an accredited or pre-accredited college or university or equivalent apprentice experience as allowed per state law; and
(2) be duly licensed and authorized to practice as an attorney under the laws of any state, territory of the United States, or the District of Columbia; and
(3) be an active member of the bar of any U.S. jurisdiction in good standing.

Education must be obtained from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Foreign education must be reviewed by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For special instructions pertaining to foreign education and a list of organizations that can evaluate foreign education, see the Department of Education website.

Employment Type: OTHER