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Associate Lawyers In Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $100,000.00 - $140,000.00 The McIlveen Family Law Firm is now hiring an Associate Attorney ... Licensed in NC * Graduation from an accredited law school * Excellent academic record * First chair ...

Associate Attorney - Trusts & Estates/Business Our client, a dynamic and collaborative law firm in Raleigh, NC , seeks an Associate Attorney with a unique blend of trusts & estates and business law ...

The McIlveen Family Law Firm is now hiring an Associate Attorney with 3+ years of experience. We ... Licensed in NC * Graduation from an accredited law school * Excellent academic record * First chair ...

Associate Attorney

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

The McIlveen Family Law Firm is now hiring an Associate Attorney with 3+ years of experience. We ... Licensed in NC * Graduation from an accredited law school * Excellent academic record * First chair ...

Associate Attorney

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$75K - $95K/yr

Join Gantt Family Law as an Associate Family Law Attorney! If you are passionate about making a ... Located in Raleigh, we are committed to advocating for our clients, supporting families, and ...

Our law firm has a full-time associate attorney position available now, and we're looking for the ... in court when needed * Want mentorship but don't rely on hand-holding * Believe excellent lawyers ...

At least 3 years of experience in legal services under an attorney or lawyer in a law firm setting * Candidates must have completed an ABA-approved paralegal certificate program such as an Associate ...

Description Our law firm has a full-time associate attorney position available now, and we're ... in court when needed • Want mentorship but don't rely on hand-holding • Believe excellent ...

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Associate Lawyers In information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$44.7K

$105.1K

$167.7K

How much do associate lawyers in jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate lawyers in in Raleigh, NC is $105,140.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $126,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate lawyer do?

An associate lawyer provides legal services under the supervision of a senior attorney, including researching legal issues, drafting documents, and representing clients in court or negotiations. They often handle case preparation, client consultations, and legal research using tools like legal databases. This role typically requires a law degree and passing the bar exam.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Lawyer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Lawyer, you need a law degree, strong legal research and writing skills, and successful completion of the bar exam. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as document management systems, is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication set outstanding associates apart. These skills and tools are crucial for building persuasive cases, supporting clients, and ensuring accuracy in a demanding legal environment.

What is the difference between Associate Lawyers In vs Paralegals?

AspectAssociate Lawyers InParalegals
Required CredentialsLaw degree, bar admissionPost-secondary education, certification varies
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departmentsLegal offices, law firms, corporate settings
Employer & Industry UsageLegal industry, law firms, corporate legal teamsLegal support roles, law firms, corporate legal departments

Associate Lawyers In and Paralegals both work within legal environments, but associate lawyers are licensed attorneys with law degrees and bar admission, handling legal cases and client representation. Paralegals support attorneys by conducting research, preparing documents, and managing case files without requiring a law license. The main difference lies in credentials and responsibilities, with associate lawyers In having a broader scope of legal authority and client interaction.

Should I use JD or ESQ?

For associate lawyers, the appropriate professional designation is typically 'Esq.' (Esquire), which is used in the United States to denote licensed attorneys. 'JD' (Juris Doctor) indicates the degree earned and is usually included in resumes or educational credentials, but it is not a formal title used in correspondence or professional signage. Using 'Esq.' after your name is common in legal practice to signify your licensed status.

What are associate lawyers?

Associate lawyers are early- to mid-career attorneys who work at law firms or legal departments under the supervision of more senior lawyers or partners. Their responsibilities typically include conducting legal research, drafting documents, assisting with case preparation, and representing clients in certain legal matters. Associates are usually on a track to become partners within the firm, depending on their performance and the firm’s structure. They often work long hours and handle a variety of legal tasks to gain experience across different practice areas. The role serves as a foundational step in a legal career, providing essential training and mentorship.

What are some common challenges Associate Lawyers face during their first year, and how can they effectively navigate them?

Associate Lawyers often encounter challenges such as managing a heavy workload, adapting to firm procedures, and learning to balance competing deadlines. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the pace and expectations, but seeking mentorship, asking clarifying questions, and proactively organizing tasks can help. Regular communication with senior lawyers and peers also facilitates a smoother transition and fosters professional growth. Embracing feedback and continuous learning are key to overcoming early-career hurdles in this role.

How to make $500,000 a year as a lawyer?

Associate lawyers typically need to gain extensive experience, specialize in high-demand areas like corporate or intellectual property law, and work at large firms or in lucrative markets to reach a $500,000 annual income. Building a strong reputation, developing client relationships, and pursuing partnership or senior roles can also increase earning potential.

What jobs can I get with an associate's degree in law?

An associate's degree in law can qualify individuals for roles such as legal assistant, paralegal, or legal secretary, which involve supporting attorneys with research, document preparation, and case management. These positions typically require strong organizational skills, familiarity with legal software, and knowledge of legal procedures, but do not require a law license or advanced degree.
What job categories do people searching Associate Lawyers In jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Lawyers In jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Associate Lawyers In jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Associate Lawyers In job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Lawyers In job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,140 per year, or $50.5 per hour.
Associate Attorney

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

Smith Debnam (www.smithdebnamlaw.com) is seeking candidates for a full-time litigation associate position to assist in the representation of businesses in matters related to Commercial Litigation, Construction Law, Equipment Leasing & Finance Litigation, Commercial Creditor Bankruptcy, and general Creditors’ Rights.

The following are pre-requisites for this position:

  • Minimum of two years experience in some mix of the above listed practice areas
  • Worked in a private litigation practice, with an understanding of the business aspects of managing a law practice
  • NC Bar license in good standing
  • Strong legal analysis and writing skills
  • Strong courtroom and negotiation skills
  • Demonstrated leadership ability
  • Self-motivated, including desire and ability to market his/her practice

Ideal candidate’s experience will include:

  • Dual licensed in NC and SC (or willingness to obtain SC licensure)
  • 3 or more years litigation experience in federal, state, and/or bankruptcy courts
  • Preference for in-office work environment in a collegial culture

This position requires being regularly present in our Raleigh, NC office, except when travelling to court appearances across the state (estimated court travel requirement of 10% to 25%)

Smith Debnam has been providing legal services to businesses and individuals in the Carolinas for over 50 years. Our attorney development philosophy supports and encourages associate attorneys in building a practice with the goal of becoming a Partner in our Firm. We provide employees with an enriching, professional work environment that rewards employee excellence, fosters teamwork, and supports professional development.

Our employees also enjoy:

  • Competitive compensation, including performance incentives
  • Quality benefit programs
  • Flexible work hours