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Associate Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Lawyers

Associate Attorney

Naperville, IL · On-site

Associate Attorney (Naperville) "At Sterling Lawyers, it's not like anyone is a lone wolf. We really want all our team members to succeed." - Katie VanDeusen, Managing Partner Sterling Lawyers, LLC ...

Direct Counsel

Finance Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$390K - $435K/yr

Direct Counsel is seeking a Finance Associate Attorney to join a highly respected Am Law firm's Chicago office. Position Overview A leading national firm is seeking a mid-level Associate Attorney ...

W3Global Inc.

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$100K - $160K/yr

A small, boutique, Chicago - based law firm seeking an associate attorney with 3 + years' experience, preferably with personal injury defense and/or commercial litigation experience. Marketing and ...

Cassiday Schade LLP

Associate Attorney

Merrillville, IN · On-site

Cassiday Schade LLP is actively seeking an associate attorney for its Merrillville Office with two plus years of experience in any area of law. The individual must be dedicated, highly motivated, and ...

Sterling Lawyers LLC

Associate Attorney

Naperville, IL · On-site

Associate Attorney (Naperville) "At Sterling Lawyers, it's not like anyone is a lone wolf. We really want all our team members to succeed." - Katie VanDeusen, Managing Partner Sterling Lawyers, LLC ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAssociate Attorney JobsAssociate Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Attorney information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.4K

$111.5K

$177.8K

How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in Chicago, IL is $111,508.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $134,000.00 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.
More about Associate Attorney jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL? For Associate Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Attorney job openings:
Associate Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Attorney job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,508 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Associate Attorney

Sterling Lawyers

Naperville, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description


Job Title: Associate Attorney (Naperville)
"At Sterling Lawyers, it's not like anyone is a lone wolf. We really want all our team members to succeed." – Katie VanDeusen, Managing Partner
Sterling Lawyers, LLC (sterlinglawyers.com) is a rapidly growing law firm that exclusively practices family law with a fixed fee model. Leave behind the stress of tracking billable hours and toxic micromanagement to join a supportive, successful and very collaborative legal team.
At Sterling Lawyers we commit to making a positive impact at every touch point with clients, the community, and our team. We reduce stress and increase flexibility in your role by using modern, efficient technology and business practices.
Are you ready to join our top-performing team and make a difference in people's lives?
Your Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive compensation based on experience
  • Bonus based on transparent metrics and individual performance (not discretionary)
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance, which are effective on the first day of the month following your hire date
  • 401k Matching
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
The Culture:
  • Flexibility in work time and space
  • Learning alongside a collaborative, supportive team of professionals
  • Mentoring and coaching as you master your craft
  • Winning on a team that is transforming the practice of family law
  • Fun, vibrant, engaging relationships that help us all grow as people
  • World class practice support from staff
  • No ceiling on what you can earn and achieve – we are a meritocracy, not bound by traditional, old school constraints
Qualifications:
  • Juris Doctorate (JD)
  • Bar license in good standing
  • 2+ years of litigation experience, Family Law preferred but not required
Responsibilities:
  • Knowledgeable regarding family law practice and procedure within practicing counties such as Cook, DuPage, Lake, and McHenry
  • Advise clients regarding ongoing litigation and explain legal issues the client might be facing or have concerns about.
  • Research facts and evidence involved in each case, such as financial records, evaluations, reports of third-party experts and/or pleadings previously filed with the Court as well as applicable law.
  • Interpret case law and decisions handed down by relevant courts. This may involve analyzing effects of multiple factors that may have been presented in other cases.
  • Develop case strategies, including opportunities for quick and cost-effective resolution for our clients rather than time-consuming and expensive litigation.
  • Prepare pleadings and other documents such as exhibits, balance sheets, support calculations, and prenuptial agreements.
  • Appear in court before a judge to present testimony, evidence, and arguments asserting the client's rights and best interests.
  • Ability to delegate to the support team and mentor less experienced attorneys.
  • Ability to work well with others on a team as well as independently.
Job Type: Full-time
Location: This role will begin with a 90-day training period in our Arlington Heights office mainly and may include the Naperville office as well. After training, the position will be based long-term in our Naperville office.
Alternative Position Names: Lawyer, Attorney, Family Law Attorney

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