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Associate Attorney Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

The Associate Attorney will work in a team-like environment and will handle all phases of immigration, criminal, and family law cases from initial intake to final case disposition. General Job ...

Land Use Associate Attorney

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$150K - $200K/yr

Hybrid Land Use Associate Attorney Benefits: - Starting salary in the $150K-$200K range - Paid Parental Leave - Life Insurance - Critical Illness and Group Accident Coverage - CLE and Bar Dues ...

Associate Attorney

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

We are currently looking for an associate-level Attorney to provide legal advice on corporate, securities and M&A matters in our New York, NY or Minneapolis, MN office. In this role, the attorney ...

Associate Attorney

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$190K - $225K/yr

This Corporate Associate position will be housed in our renowned Corporate and M&A group. Requirements Position Details We are looking for an experienced transactional attorney with corporate ...

Great fit for an attorney who wants hands-on responsibility, courtroom/client exposure, and a clear path to grow within a respected local practice. Location: This is an in-person role based in ...

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Messerli Kramer, a trusted Twin Cities law firm since 1965, is looking for an Associate Attorney to join our team in Plymouth, MN. Messerli & Kramer represents national creditors in Minnesota ...

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Associate Attorney information

See Minnesota salary details

$45.1K

$105.9K

$168.9K

How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in Minnesota is $105,933.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $127,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Associate Attorney vs Paralegal?

AspectAssociate AttorneyParalegal
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice lawAssociate's degree or paralegal certificate
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, legal departments, courts
Job ResponsibilitiesLegal research, client counseling, drafting legal documents, court appearancesLegal research, document preparation, case organization, client communication

Associate Attorneys are licensed legal professionals who handle complex legal tasks and represent clients in court, while Paralegals support attorneys with research and document preparation without practicing law. Both roles are essential in legal settings, but Associate Attorneys have more advanced responsibilities and licensing requirements.

What Does an Associate Attorney Do?

Associate attorneys are early career lawyers who work for law firms to gain experience and hone their skills after completing law school and passing the bar exam for their state. Under the guidance of an experienced attorney or a partner in the firm, associate attorneys assist with cases by conducting legal research and writing reports, legal briefs, and other documents. Associate attorneys also negotiate with colleagues from other law firms, participate in jury selection, and help argue cases in court.

What is an Associate Attorney?

An Associate Attorney is a licensed lawyer who works at a law firm and typically has less experience than partners or senior attorneys. Their responsibilities often include conducting legal research, drafting documents, meeting with clients, and assisting with case preparation. Associate Attorneys usually work under the supervision of more senior lawyers and are on a partnership track, meaning they may eventually be considered for partnership in the firm. Their role is crucial for supporting the firm's legal work and gaining experience in various areas of law.

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

To thrive as an Associate Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, document management systems, and e-discovery tools is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, time management, and teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure effective case preparation, compliance with legal standards, and successful collaboration with clients and colleagues.

What are some common challenges faced by associate attorneys in their first few years, and how can they overcome them?

Associate attorneys often encounter challenges such as managing a heavy workload, adapting to the fast-paced environment of a law firm, and learning to balance billable hour requirements with professional development. Building strong organizational and time-management skills is crucial to handle multiple cases and deadlines effectively. Additionally, seeking mentorship, actively communicating with senior attorneys, and asking for feedback can help associates navigate complex matters and grow professionally within the firm.
What are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Attorney jobs in Minnesota? For Associate Attorney jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Attorney jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Attorney jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Associate Attorney job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Attorney job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,933 per year, or $50.9 per hour.
Associate Attorney

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Contreras & Metelska, PA is a boutique law firm located in the Twin Cities specializing in immigration, family, and criminal law.

Job Description

General Responsibilities: The position provides comprehensive legal assistance and representation through all phases of immigration and naturalization processes. The Associate Attorney will work in a team-like environment and will handle all phases of immigration, criminal, and family law cases from initial intake to final case disposition.

General Job Expectations: An Associate Attorney must possess a demonstrated interest in working with persons of diverse economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds, be licensed to practice law in Minnesota, and speak English fluently. Additionally, the attorney should demonstrate good communication skills, an ability to work constructively with others, good judgment, the ability to learn quickly, and must work well independently and under pressure as well as in collaboration with other staff members. The Attorney's written and oral communication, management of interpersonal relationships, and legal advice should reflect the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Fluent in English, proficient in Spanish.
  • Excellent oral, listening, and written communication skills.
  • High level of attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
  • Familiarity with diverse refugee and immigrant communities preferred.
  • Demonstrated interest in serving the immigrant and refugee community and experience working with persons of diverse economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
  • Ability to work constructively with others, exercise good judgment, learn quickly, work well independently and under pressure, as well as in collaboration with other staff and with other organizations.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs. Database experience a plus.
Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.