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Associate Attorney Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Associate Attorney information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$45.6K

$107.2K

$171K

How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in Springfield, IL is $107,198.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $128,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Associate Attorney jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Attorney jobs in Springfield, IL? For Associate Attorney jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Attorney jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Attorney jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Associate Attorney job openings:
Associate Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Attorney job openings in Springfield, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 64% In-person, and 36% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,198 per year, or $51.5 per hour.
Assistant Attorney General - General Law - Quincy

Assistant Attorney General - General Law - Quincy

Illinois Attorney General

Springfield, IL • On-site

$84.48K - $107.55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Salary: $84,480.00 - $107,550.00 Annually
Location : Quincy, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26-AAG-GOV-GEN-QUI
Administration: Chief Deputy - Attorney General
Bureau: General Law
Opening Date: 09/23/2025
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities
The General Law Bureau represents the interests of the State of Illinois and its people in civil trial litigation. The Bureau functions as a defense law firm for the State of Illinois, its officers, agencies and employees. Examples of the areas of law include personal injury, property damage, and injunction cases, administrative hearings and reviews, declaratory judgment actions, federal and state civil rights cases and class actions.
Assistant Attorneys General in the General Law Bureau defend cases brought against State of Illinois agencies, employees and officers. They respond to complaints, draft pleadings, draft and respond to motions, proffer and organize written and electronic discovery, conduct depositions, manage mediations and settlements and represent client interests in administrative hearings and various state and federal courts. Assistant Attorneys General are expected to manage a large case load. Travel is required.
Qualifications
Candidates must have excellent research and writing skills. Ideal candidates must be able to handle a large caseload, exercise sound judgment and work independently. Candidates must be licensed by the State of Illinois at the time of application.
Supplemental Information
Salary: Salaries are commensurate with number of years of practice as a licensed attorney and range from $ 84,480 to $ 107,550.
To ensure full consideration, please submit a cover letter, resume, three professional references, and a writing sample. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us:
Attn: Thor Y. Inouye
Office of the Illinois Attorney General
115 S. LaSalle St.
Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 814-3695
(312) 814-5024 (Fax)
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
Part-time employees who work an average of 20 hours per week over the course of a year, receive benefits on a pro-rated basis.
As an employee of the Illinois Attorney General's Office, you'll have access to many great benefits. Join the legal team responsible for protecting the public interest of the state and the people of Illinois!
  • Health and Dental insurance along with free Vision insurance*
  • Pension Benefits through the State Employees'; Retirement System
  • Deferred Compensation: supplemental retirement savings program-457k
  • Commuter Savings Program: pre-tax transportation program
  • Flexible Spending: Medical and Dependent pre-tax savings program
  • Life insurance benefit: free with option to purchase additional (up to 8 x your annual salary) at low cost. Spouse and child life insurance available
  • Disability coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program through ComPsych
  • Holidays: 13 1/2 paid
  • Vacation days: minimum of 12 days, maximum of 27 days, prorated
  • Personal days: 4 annually
  • Floating Holiday: 1 annually
  • Sick days: 1 per month
  • For attorneys, office provided Continuing Legal Education
  • Semi-monthly payroll

*Health and Dental cost ranges: for single: $131.00 - $314.00 monthly; for family: $299.00 - $653.00 monthly
For more information on benefits:

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