DPA ATTORNEY
Fort Smith, AR · On-site
$127K/yr
Exempt Salary Range: 85,943 - $127,195 Summary The Deputy Prosecuting Attorney works under the direction of the Elected Prosecuting Attorney and is responsible for maintaining a criminal case load ...
DPA ATTORNEY
Fort Smith, AR · On-site
$127K/yr
Exempt Salary Range: 85,943 - $127,195 Summary The Deputy Prosecuting Attorney works under the direction of the Elected Prosecuting Attorney and is responsible for maintaining a criminal case load ...
DPA ATTORNEY (Q535U)
Fort Smith, AR · On-site
$127K/yr
Exempt Salary Range: 85,943 - $127,195 Summary The Deputy Prosecuting Attorney works under the direction of the Elected Prosecuting Attorney and is responsible for maintaining a criminal case load ...
DPA ATTORNEY (Q535U)
Fort Smith, AR · On-site
$127K/yr
Exempt Salary Range: 85,943 - $127,195 Summary The Deputy Prosecuting Attorney works under the direction of the Elected Prosecuting Attorney and is responsible for maintaining a criminal case load ...
Associate Attorney information
See Fort Smith, AR salary details
$44.4K - $55.5K
2% of jobs
$55.5K - $66.6K
6% of jobs
$77.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$66.6K - $77.7K
17% of jobs
$77.7K - $88.8K
15% of jobs
The median wage is $95.5K / yr.
$88.8K - $99.9K
15% of jobs
$99.9K - $111K
11% of jobs
$119.6K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$111K - $122.1K
11% of jobs
$122.1K - $133.2K
9% of jobs
$133.2K - $144.3K
6% of jobs
$144.3K - $155.4K
5% of jobs
$155.4K - $166.5K
2% of jobs
$44.4K
$104.4K
$166.5K
How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in Fort Smith, AR is $104,383.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,200.00 and $125,500.00 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?
| Aspect | Associate Attorney | Paralegal |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Juris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice law | Associate's degree or paralegal certificate |
| Work Environment | Law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies | Law firms, legal departments, courts |
| Job Responsibilities | Legal research, client counseling, drafting legal documents, court appearances | Legal 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.
More about Associate Attorney jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in Fort Smith, AR?
The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Fort Smith, AR are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Attorney jobs in Fort Smith, AR look for?
The top searched job categories for Associate Attorney jobs in Fort Smith, AR are:
What cities near Fort Smith, AR are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs?
Cities near Fort Smith, AR with the most Associate Attorney job openings:
DPA ATTORNEY
Fort Smith, AR • On-site
State of Arkansas •
Public Administration • 10K+ employees10,000+ employees
7.4
Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
34th of 50 rated states
People enjoy working here
Good employer
Recommended by parents
Respectful managers
Uninterrupted breaks
$127K/yr
Full-time
Posted 23 days ago
Job description
Position Information
Class Code: Q535U
Grade: SPC05
FLSA Status: Exempt
Salary Range: 85,943 - $127,195
Summary
The Deputy Prosecuting Attorney works under the direction of the Elected Prosecuting Attorney and is responsible for maintaining a criminal case load and handling all matters associated with criminal prosecution, including court preparation, charging decisions, legal research as well as the drafting of legal documents.
Functions
Receives criminal complaints from citizens within the judicial district for consideration of prosecution. Prepares complaint affidavits for filing in misdemeanor prosecutions.
Maintains misdemeanor case load, including trial and witness preparation, filing appropriate motions and responses and trying misdemeanor cases and appeals. Maintains a felony case load, including trial and witness preparation, filing appropriate motions and responses and trying felony Circuit Court cases for the Judicial District. Reviews case files submitted by law enforcement and other investigatory agencies to recommend appropriate criminal charges. Drafts briefs, motions, and other supporting legal documents on criminal cases within the Judicial District. Represents the State of Arkansas in legal proceedings within the Judicial District. Performs other duties as assigned.
Dimensions
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of state and federal laws and statutes. Knowledge of Criminal Procedure.
Knowledge of legal research and writing protocols. Knowledge of the state's legislative processes.
Ability to research, analyze, interpret, and apply case law, state and federal statutes, legal precedents, and relevant legislative intent to agency legal matters.
Ability to provide legal guidance and technical assistance. Ability to conduct litigation.
Ability to prepare, present and review oral and written information and reports.
Minimum Qualifications
A Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
Licenses
Licensed to practice law in Arkansas and admitted to the Arkansas State Bar.
Class Code: Q535U
Grade: SPC05
FLSA Status: Exempt
Salary Range: 85,943 - $127,195
Summary
The Deputy Prosecuting Attorney works under the direction of the Elected Prosecuting Attorney and is responsible for maintaining a criminal case load and handling all matters associated with criminal prosecution, including court preparation, charging decisions, legal research as well as the drafting of legal documents.
Functions
Receives criminal complaints from citizens within the judicial district for consideration of prosecution. Prepares complaint affidavits for filing in misdemeanor prosecutions.
Maintains misdemeanor case load, including trial and witness preparation, filing appropriate motions and responses and trying misdemeanor cases and appeals. Maintains a felony case load, including trial and witness preparation, filing appropriate motions and responses and trying felony Circuit Court cases for the Judicial District. Reviews case files submitted by law enforcement and other investigatory agencies to recommend appropriate criminal charges. Drafts briefs, motions, and other supporting legal documents on criminal cases within the Judicial District. Represents the State of Arkansas in legal proceedings within the Judicial District. Performs other duties as assigned.
Dimensions
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of state and federal laws and statutes. Knowledge of Criminal Procedure.
Knowledge of legal research and writing protocols. Knowledge of the state's legislative processes.
Ability to research, analyze, interpret, and apply case law, state and federal statutes, legal precedents, and relevant legislative intent to agency legal matters.
Ability to provide legal guidance and technical assistance. Ability to conduct litigation.
Ability to prepare, present and review oral and written information and reports.
Minimum Qualifications
A Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
Licenses
Licensed to practice law in Arkansas and admitted to the Arkansas State Bar.
About State of Arkansas
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
The "State of Arkansas" is not a company but the governmental body of the U.S. state of Arkansas. Its primary operations are situated in the state's capital, Little Rock. As a governmental entity, its services span various domains including education, health, businesses, transportation, and environment, among others. Its mission revolves around serving the needs of the Arkansas citizens, ensuring their safety, health and welfare, overseeing the state's resources, and contributing to the overall prosperity and quality of life in the state. The state government has achieved various milestones improving the local infrastructure, health facilities, and implementing progressive policies for the betterment of the communities.
Industry
Public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Little Rock, AR, US
Website
What State Of Arkansas employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
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