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Associate Attorney Jobs in Independence, OR (NOW HIRING)

Attorney II

Salem, OR ยท On-site

$122K - $143K/yr

We think our trial attorneys' work is pretty exciting: They represent SAIF and its policyholders at hearings and other claims-related proceedings, and they mediate or negotiate appropriate claims to ...

Attorney II

Salem, OR ยท On-site +1

$122K - $143K/yr

We think our trial attorneys' work is pretty exciting: They represent SAIF and its policyholders at hearings and other claims-related proceedings, and they mediate or negotiate appropriate claims to ...

Attorney I

Salem, OR ยท On-site +1

$90K - $150K/yr

We think our trial attorneys' work is pretty exciting: They represent SAIF and its policyholders at hearings and other claims-related proceedings, and they mediate or negotiate appropriate claims to ...

Attorney I

Salem, OR ยท On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

We think our trial attorneys' work is pretty exciting: They represent SAIF and its policyholders at hearings and other claims-related proceedings, and they mediate or negotiate appropriate claims to ...

Claims Adjuster Senior - Injury

Salem, OR ยท Hybrid

$75K - $97K/yr

Investigating complex and high-risk claims - which may be attorney represented or have additional ... Four years of relevant work experience with two years in claims handling and an associate degree ...

Investigating complex and high-risk claims - which may be attorney represented or have additional ... Four years of relevant work experience with two years in claims handling and an associate degree ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Attorney information

See Independence, OR salary details

$44.5K

$104.7K

$167K

How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in Independence, OR is $104,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $125,900.00 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 Independence, OR? The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Independence, OR are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Attorney jobs in Independence, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Attorney jobs in Independence, OR are:
What cities near Independence, OR are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs? Cities near Independence, OR with the most Associate Attorney job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Attorney job openings in Independence, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,735 per year, or $50.4 per hour.
Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense - Dui

Associate Attorney - Criminal Defense - Dui

Reynolds Defense Firm

Corvallis, OR โ€ข On-site, Remote

$150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Are you passionate about criminal defense, hardworking, upbeat, and thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment? Then you may be the perfect fit to manage meaningful cases and help good people move forward after a DUI.


We are seeking an attorney to lead our Corvallis, OR office. You'll step into a steady but manageable caseload with dedicated legal-assistant support, established firm systems, and above-market compensation and benefits, so you can do your best work for clients while maintaining a full life outside the office.


Why Attorneys Join Reynolds Defense Firm

  • Base salary of $115,000โ€“$150,000, plus performance bonuses and origination incentives
  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and life insurance, with FSA/DCA available
  • 401(k) with 3% employer contribution after one year
  • Three weeks of paid vacation (increases with tenure) and 40 hours of sick leave
  • Work-from-home flexibility after 90 days
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Caseload of 25โ€“40 active matters, fully supported by legal staff
  • A culture that takes work-life balance seriously, with a team-first attitude where shared expertise and knowledge serve clients best
  • As the largest DUI law firm in the Pacific Northwest, with an exceptional courtroom reputation and established presence in the Portland-Metro area, Willamette Valley, and beyond
Compensation:

$115,000 - $150,000 annual salary + bonus


Responsibilities:
  • Lead the Corvallis office, managing a caseload of 25โ€“40 DUI and related criminal defense matters in Benton, Linn, and surrounding Willamette Valley counties
  • Represent clients at arraignments, motions, hearings, and trials; draft motions and conduct legal research
  • Handle DMV implied-consent hearings and license-suspension matters
  • Mentor junior attorneys and contribute to office leadership
  • Participate in ongoing DUI-defense continuing legal education
  • Optionally, build a referral base using the firm's established business-development systems

Qualifications:

Required

  • J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school
  • Active membership in the Oregon State Bar in good standing
  • Minimum of two (2) years (five or more preferred) of criminal law experience (defense, prosecution, judicial clerkship), including trial experience
  • DUI defense and/or felony case experience
  • Sound judgment and courtroom composure under pressure
  • Ability to counsel clients with clarity and compassion; execute case strategies aligned with their goals


Preferred

  • Experience in Willamette Valley, Eugene-area, Coastal, or Portland-metro courts
  • Spanish-language fluency
  • Demonstrated mentoring or management/leadership experience

About Company

At RDF, we believe in doing exceptional legal work and helping clients grow through their personal challenges. We combine courtroom excellence with tools that support personal changeโ€”thatโ€™s how we create real success.

We have been recognized for several years running as:

  • One of the Fastest Growing Private Companies in OR & WA (Portland Business Journal)
  • Best of the Willamette Valley โ€” Best DUI/DWI Law Firm
  • Best of the Rose City โ€” Best Overall Law Firm, Best Defense Law Firm, and Best DUI/DWI Law Firm

Reynolds Defense Firm is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.