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Associate Attorney Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Litigation Associate Attorney

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Dunn Carney LLP's Litigation Practice Group is growing and we are seeking a litigation associate ... You will be part of a supportive, team-oriented environment where attorneys are encouraged to grow ...

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Associate Attorney information

See Oregon salary details

$48.6K

$114.4K

$182.4K

How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in Oregon is $114,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,600.00 and $137,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Associate Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Attorney job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,356 per year, or $55 per hour.

Litigation Associate Attorney

Dunn Carney LLP.

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Dunn Carney LLPโ€™s Litigation Practice Group is growing and we are seeking a litigation associate with 3-5 years of experience handling Oregon and Washington civil litigation matters. This is an opportunity to take on meaningful responsibility in a collaborative, mid-sized firm where your work will have direct client impact. You will handle a diverse range of civil matters while working alongside experienced litigators who are invested in your professional growth. In addition, you will have opportunities to take ownership of your cases while receiving support from experienced litigators who value collaboration and professional development.

What Youโ€™ll Do

You will play an active role in all phases of litigation, including:

  • Managing a variety of civil disputes from inception through resolution
  • Drafting pleadings, motions, discovery, and legal memoranda
  • Overseeing document collection and production
  • Developing case strategy and advising clients
  • Taking and defending depositions
  • Representing clients in mediations, settlement conferences, arbitrations, and trials
What Weโ€™re Looking For

We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented attorney who takes ownership of their work and is committed to delivering excellent client service.

Qualifications:

  • 3โ€“5 years of civil litigation experience; exposure to areas such as business, real estate, closely held corporate, employment, environmental/natural resources, or construction disputes or insurance defense is a plus
  • Strong writing, research, and analytical skills
  • Excellent organizational and time-management abilities
  • Ability to manage multiple matters in a deadline-driven environment
  • Confidence in client interaction and collaboration with colleagues
  • D. from an accredited law school and admission to the Oregon State Bar (Washington State Bar Association admission a plus, but not required)
Why Dunn Carney

We offer more than just interesting work; we offer a place to build a career. You will be part of a supportive, team-oriented environment where attorneys are encouraged to grow, take initiative, and develop their practice.

We are committed to fostering a workplace that values diverse perspectives and backgrounds. That commitment strengthens our firm, our client relationships, and our community.

Note on equal opportunity

Dunn Carney LLP is an equal opportunity employer and actively encourages applications for employment from qualified individuals of diverse backgrounds. If you need reasonable accommodations to apply for any position, please let us know. All employment decisions, practices and procedures are carried out without regard to gender, race, color, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or any other applicable legally protected status.

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