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Associate Attorney Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Employment Associate

Portland, ME · On-site

$110K - $127K/yr

C., is seeking an experienced attorney to join the firm's dynamic Employment Law Practice Group. The Employment Associate can be based in either our downtown  Portland, ME or Concord, NH office.

Employment Associate

Portland, ME · On-site

$110K - $127K/yr

C. is seeking an experienced attorney to join the firm's dynamic Employment Law Practice Group. The Employment Associate can be based in either our downtown Portland, ME or Concord, NH office. This ...

Family Attorney

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Family Attorney The Maine Divorce Group Kennebunk, Maine, United States About this position The Maine Legal Group seeks an experienced litigation attorney to build a rewarding practice in family law.

Command Center Associate

Portland, ME · On-site

$16.85 - $25.17/hr

Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work with all levels of store management and store associates. * Strong computer skills and internet project coordination experience. * Must be a ...

Attorneys work from one of our core offices in Kennebunk or Brunswick and benefit from the support of a collaborative legal team, ongoing professional development opportunities, and flexibility in ...

Family Attorney

Kennebunk, ME · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

This role is ideal for an attorney who enjoys courtroom advocacy, strategic problem-solving, and guiding clients through consequential moments. Attorneys work from one of our core offices in ...

Corporate Attorney

Portland, ME · On-site

$106K - $142K/yr

Corporate Attorney Portland, Maine Drummond Woodsum seeks an attorney to join its business services practice at its Portland, Maine office. This position will involve a broad range of work, including ...

Corporate Attorney Portland, Maine Drummond Woodsum seeks an attorney to join its business services practice at its Portland, Maine office.This position will involve a broad range of work, including ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Attorney information

See Portland, ME salary details

$47.1K

$110.7K

$176.5K

How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in Portland, ME is $110,660.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,800.00 and $133,000.00 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 Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Portland, ME are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Attorney jobs in Portland, ME?

For Associate Attorney jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Attorney jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Attorney jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Associate Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Attorney job openings in Portland, ME as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 64% In-person, 18% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,660 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Associate Attorney - Family Law & Criminal Defense

Kennebunk, ME • Hybrid

Orion Placement
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees

$90K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Represent clients in family law and criminal defense matters from initial consultation through resolution.

  • Develop and manage a diverse caseload involving high-stakes and highly personal legal issues.

  • Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, motions, correspondence, and other legal documents.


Job description

Pay: $90,000.00 - $180,000.00 per year

Why This Is a Great Opportunity

  • Build a meaningful legal practice across two high-impact areas: family law and criminal defense.
  • Get substantial courtroom advocacy experience while handling consequential matters for real people.
  • Enjoy the variety of a true dual-practice role rather than being limited to one narrow area of law.
  • Work with a collaborative legal team that values professional development, strategic thinking, and client service.
  • Benefit from hybrid flexibility and the choice of working from either our Brunswick or Kennebunk office.
  • Earn competitive compensation with additional performance-based bonus opportunities.

Location: Hybrid opportunity based out of either our Brunswick, ME or Kennebunk, ME office, offering flexibility while keeping you connected to a collaborative legal team.

Note: Active Maine Bar licensure is required. Prior family law or criminal defense experience is preferred, but this is a soft-screen qualification rather than an absolute requirement.

About Us

We are a client-focused law firm dedicated to helping people navigate some of the most consequential legal challenges they will face. Our team combines strong courtroom advocacy, strategic problem-solving, compassion, and practical legal guidance to pursue meaningful outcomes for our clients.Confidential Employer.

Job Description

  • Represent clients in family law and criminal defense matters from initial consultation through resolution.
  • Develop and manage a diverse caseload involving high-stakes and highly personal legal issues.
  • Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, motions, correspondence, and other legal documents.
  • Prepare cases for hearings, negotiations, trials, and other courtroom proceedings.
  • Advocate for clients in court and confidently present legal arguments.
  • Develop case strategies tailored to each client's circumstances and goals.
  • Communicate directly with clients and guide them through complex legal processes.
  • Collaborate with attorneys and support staff to efficiently move matters forward.
  • Maintain organized case files, deadlines, and consistent client communication.
  • Continue developing expertise across both family law and criminal defense.

Qualifications

  • Active Maine Bar license in good standing.
  • J.D. from an accredited law school.
  • Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and courtroom advocacy skills.
  • Excellent communication and client relationship skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple matters, deadlines, and competing priorities.
  • Genuine interest in practicing both family law and criminal defense.
  • Prior family law or criminal defense experience is preferred.

Why You Will Love Working Here

You will have the opportunity to grow as a well-rounded litigator while doing work that genuinely matters to clients. Our team values collaboration, professional growth, thoughtful advocacy, and a client-first mindset, while giving attorneys the flexibility and support to develop their own strengths and practice.

JPC-1810

Benefits:

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