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Associate Attorney Jobs in Sumner, ME (NOW HIRING)

Our group of caring associates create financial security by helping individuals and businesses make ... attorneys * Obtain and maintain appropriate adjuster's license(s) as required * Assist in the ...

Associate Attorney information

See Sumner, ME salary details

$44.8K

$105.4K

$168.1K

How much do associate attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate attorney in Sumner, ME is $105,407.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $126,700.00 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 cities near Sumner, ME are hiring for Associate Attorney jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Associate Attorney job openings in Sumner, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,407 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Worker's Compensation Attorney Advocate - Lewiston

Maine

Lewiston, ME • Hybrid

$58K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

If you are a current State of Maine employee, please submit your application through the internal application process using the Find Jobs report in PRISM. Seasonal employees who do not have PRISM access should apply through the State's career page and indicate on the application that they have previously worked for the State.

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Workers' Compensation Board
Workers' Comp Attorney Advocate - Lewiston

Opening Date:August 17, 2026

Closing Date:August 31, 2026


Grade/ Admin Unit:27 / Professional Technical

Job Class Code:2017
Salary: $58,219.20 - $81,806.41/Annually
Position Number:029000050

Location: Lewiston

Telework: Partial/ Hybrid, with management approval, upon completion of probationary period. All telework must be preformed in the State of Maine.

Currently, this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions.

JOB DESCRIPTION:
This is professional services work providing advocacy and legal services to injured workers. Responsibilities include advising, consulting, and representing workers before administrative bodies; developing evidence and testimony for case presentation; and assisting in preparation of appellate briefs to the Law Court. Work is performed under limited supervision.
TYPICAL DUTIES:

  • Represents injured workers in administrative hearings in order to provide legal services and representation.

  • Analyzes case information and documents facts, reports, and other documentation in order to advocate for injured workers.

  • Counsels and advises injured workers to protect their legal rights.

  • Explains laws, legal rights, options, timelines, and risks and advantages of pursuing claims in order to ensure injured works are knowledgeable of their rights.

  • Confers and negotiates with insurance adjusters, private attorneys, employers, health care and service providers, and other third parties in order to represent and protect the rights of injured workers.

  • Writes legal memoranda and briefs in connection with litigation and administrative proceedings in order to prepare for proceedings.

  • Explains laws, decisions, rules, policies, and procedures of Workers' Compensation Board to injured workers.

  • Determines scope of investigation on injured workers' claims in order to ensure comprehensive services in an efficient timeframe.

  • Negotiates resolutions and/or compromise of claims in order to reduce litigation claims in administrative system.

  • Provides legal advice and assistance to injured workers in obtaining appropriate rehabilitation, return to work, and employment security services in order to ensure appropriate representation and to protect injured workers' rights.

  • Takes depositions of treating and examining physicians and other involved parties in order to ensure documentation of workers' injuries.

  • Assists in preparation of cases for appellate review to the Law Court in order to ensure a thorough presentation of workers' injuries.

  • Reviews and drafts findings in mediation or administrative hearing proceedings under the jurisdiction of the Workers' Compensation Board in order to ensure findings conform to applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

  • Coordinates the execution of legal services with senior legal staff in order to ensure common understanding and interpretation of the law.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of state and federal laws, administrative laws, rules, and case law affecting Workers' Compensation Board programs and services.

  • Knowledge of basic legal concepts of due process, administrative law, constitutional law, torts, and contracts.

  • Knowledge of legal documents, court procedures, and rules of evidence.

  • Knowledge of medical and legal terminology and practices in workers' compensation.

  • Knowledge of legal research techniques.

  • Knowledge of trial techniques.

  • Knowledge of interviewing and investigative techniques and practices.

  • Ability to research, analyze, and organize legal facts and principles.

  • Ability to communicate effectively

  • Ability to write clearly and effectively

  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

  • Ability to negotiate mediation agreements, lump sum settlements, or other voluntary resolutions.

  • Ability to prepare and maintain complex cases and large caseloads.

  • Ability to handle difficult and adversarial situations.

  • Ability to maintain confidentiality of client information and communications.


MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Admission to the practice of law in the State of Maine and current registration with the Board of Overseers of the Maine Bar - OR - eligibility for admission to practice law in the State of Maine with the provision that admittance to the practice of law in the State of Maine and registration with the Board of Overseers of the Bar occurs within twelve (12) months of the date of hire.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Pleasesubmita cover letter along with a current resume and three (3) professional references.

In order forus to properlydetermineif you meet the minimum qualifications for any posting, you must be sure your resume includes the month and year for any relevant experience listed. Your resume should include the duties and responsibilities associated with each position. Any experience that was not full-time employment should be identified as such.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Formore information orquestions specific to the position, please contact:recruiting.ggsc@maine.gov

The selected candidate willbe requiredto pass the required background checks (fingerprinting may berequired) as a condition of employment.

Benefits of working for the State of Maine:

No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto-"Dirigo" or "I lead"-as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:

  • Work-Life Balance- Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave,and3+ weeks of vacation leaveannually. Vacationleaveaccrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.

  • Health Insurance Coverage- The State of Maine pays85%-100%of employee-only premiums ($11,857.68-$13,950.24 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find thepremium costsfor you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.

  • Health Insurance Premium Credit- Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information aboutprogram requirements.

  • Dental Insurance- The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($365.28 annual value).

  • Retirement Plan- The State of Maine contributes14.06% of payto the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), on behalf of the employee.

  • Gym Membership Reimbursement- Improve overall health with regular exercise and receive up to $40 per month to offset this expense.

  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts- Set aside money pre-tax to help pay for out-of-pocket health care expenses and/or daycare expenses.

  • Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness- The State of Maine is a qualified employer for this federal program. For more information, visit theFederal Student Aid office.

  • Living Resources Program- Navigate challenging work and life situations with our employeeassistanceprogram.

  • Parental leaveis one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child-including fathers and adoptive parents-receiveforty-two (42) consecutive calendar days of fully paid parental leave.Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under theFamily and Medical Leave Act.

  • Voluntary Deferred Compensation- Saveadditionalpre-tax funds for retirement in aMaineSaves457(b) account through payroll deductions.

State employees are eligible for anextensive and highly competitive benefits package, covering many aspects of wellness.Learn aboutadditionalwellness benefitsfor State employees from theOffice of Employee Health and Wellness.

Note: Benefits may varysomewhat accordingto specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.

There'sa job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicantsdemonstratejob requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.

As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics.

Ifyou'relooking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do,we'dlove to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Thinking about applying?

Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. Ifyou'recurrently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your experience and passion set you apart.

If you require a paper application, please download and print oneHERE

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If you are unable to complete the online application, please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening you are interested in applying for. They will work with you for an alternative method of submitting.