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Associate Attorney Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Orion Placement

Associate Attorney

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Collaborate closely with senior attorneys and paralegals to move matters forward efficiently * Maintain well-organized files and manage deadlines across an active caseload * Handle sensitive client ...

Robert Half

L&E Attorney

Batavia, IL · Remote

$80.75 - $93.50/hr

We are looking for an experienced Labor & Employment Attorney to support a fast-paced retail organization in Batavia, Illinois. This Long-term Contract position is ideal for a legal specialist who ...

PetSmart

PetsHotel Associate

Oswego, IL

Pets Hotel Associate About Life at PetSmart Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we're building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork.

Capital Health

Staff Attorney

Rockford, IL · On-site

Under the direction of the Associate General Counsel, the Staff Attorney prepares and retains contracts, court documents, pleadings, discovery, and other requested documents in auto insurance ...

SupplyCore

Attorney - Government Contracts

Rockford, IL · On-site +1

SupplyCore is seeking a Attorney - Government Contracts to support its government contracting ... Progressive Associate Recognition Program * Annual social and community events * Company Provided ...

Casa Kane County

CASA/GAL Attorney

Geneva, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

CASA Kane County is seeking an attorney to join its Legal Department. We welcome applications from attorneys at different stages of their careers. The CASA/GAL Attorney is responsible for the ...

CSAA

Sr. Trial Attorney - Remote

Oregon, IL · On-site

Job Title Sr. Trial Attorney - Remote Requisition Number R7824 Sr. Trial Attorney - Remote (Open) Location California - Home Teleworkers Additional Locations Arizona - Home Teleworkers, Nevada - Home ...

Jobot

PI Attorney (100% remote)

Geneva, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $125K/yr

PI Attorney / Geneva / 100% remote This Jobot Job is hosted by: Christopher Mildyn Are you a fit? Easy Apply now by clicking the "Apply Now" button and sending us your resume. Salary: $80,000 - $125 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Attorney JobsAssociate Attorney Jobs in DeKalb, IL

Associate Attorney information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$45.1K

$106.2K

$169.3K

How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in DeKalb, IL is $106,159.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $127,600.00 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 DeKalb, IL?

The most popular types of Attorney jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Attorney jobs in DeKalb, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Attorney jobs in DeKalb, IL are:

What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs?

Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Associate Attorney job openings:

Associate Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Attorney job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 73% In-person, 18% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,159 per year, or $51 per hour.

Associate Attorney

Orion Placement

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Pay: $80,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Why This Is a Great Opportunity

  • Join a boutique elder law firm with nearly 30 years of recognized excellence — the kind of established practice that gives your career real credibility
  • Work directly alongside a nationally recognized leader in elder law — mentorship and professional development are built into the role
  • Handle substantive, complex matters in estate administration and guardianship from day one — no document review purgatory here
  • Be part of a collaborative, collegial team where your contributions are seen and valued
  • Earn a competitive salary that reflects your experience and the weight of the work
  • Full benefits package including health, dental, vision, life insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k) with matching, and paid time off
  • Annual performance bonuses available
  • A practice area that genuinely matters — you'll help families through some of the most significant moments of their lives

Location: This is a full-time, in-person role based in our St. Charles, IL office. We're a collaborative team and most of us are here together every day — that energy is part of what makes the practice work. Occasional remote flexibility may be available once you're settled in.

Note: This role requires a minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in estate administration and/or guardianship. Active Illinois bar licensure is required. Applicants without these qualifications will not be considered.

About Us

We are a boutique elder law and estate planning firm with nearly 30 years of experience guiding individuals and families through estate planning, trust and estate administration, guardianship, probate litigation, and long-term care planning. Our firm is led by a nationally recognized authority in the field, and we combine the depth and sophistication of a larger practice with the personalized attention only a small firm can offer. We handle sensitive, high-stakes family matters every day — and we're proud of the care we bring to each one. Confidential Employer.

Job Description

  • Manage a caseload of estate administration and guardianship matters with appropriate attorney supervision and increasing autonomy
  • Draft pleadings, motions, orders, letters, and legal documents across probate and guardianship proceedings
  • Appear in court on behalf of clients in guardianship and estate matters
  • Counsel clients directly, providing clear guidance through complex and emotionally charged situations
  • Collaborate closely with senior attorneys and paralegals to move matters forward efficiently
  • Maintain well-organized files and manage deadlines across an active caseload
  • Handle sensitive client situations with professionalism, empathy, and discretion

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience in estate administration and/or guardianship (required)
  • Active Illinois bar licensure in good standing (required)
  • Strong legal writing and drafting skills
  • Ability to manage a diverse caseload with precision and self-direction
  • Comfortable in court and in direct client-facing roles
  • Probate litigation experience a plus
  • Genuine passion for elder law and serving vulnerable populations

Why You Will Love Working Here

This is the kind of firm where your work actually means something. You won't be buried in a large department or lost in a bureaucratic structure — you'll be a recognized member of a tight-knit team doing real, complex, meaningful legal work. The firm's reputation opens doors, the mentorship is genuine, and the culture is one where people actually stay. If you're an elder law attorney looking for a place to grow and plant roots, this is worth your attention.

JPC-1260

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance