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Biglaw Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Complex Litigation Associate

Dallas, TX · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Our litigation group is one of the firm's core strengths, and we are looking to add an associate ... BigLaw for attorneys who want serious work without the overhead that comes with it. If you have ...

Sr. Litigation Associate

Dallas, TX · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Our litigation group is one of the firm's core strengths, and we are looking to add an associate ... BigLaw for attorneys who want serious work without the overhead that comes with it. If you have ...

Real Estate Attorney

Boston, MA · Hybrid

$150K - $250K/yr

Many associates excel while billing approximately 1,500 hours annually. * Gain meaningful ... BigLaw or strong regional law firm experience is preferred. Relevant in-house candidates are ...

Our litigation group is one of the firm's core strengths, and we are looking to add an associate ... BigLaw for attorneys who want serious work without the overhead that comes with it. If you have ...

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Biglaw Associate information

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$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

How much do biglaw associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for biglaw associate in the United States is $108,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Biglaw associate?

A Biglaw Associate is a lawyer who works at a large, prestigious law firm, often referred to as 'Biglaw' firms. These firms typically handle high-profile clients and complex legal matters, and associates are usually early- to mid-career attorneys who work under the supervision of partners. Biglaw Associates are known for working long hours, receiving competitive salaries, and often specializing in areas such as corporate law, litigation, mergers and acquisitions, or finance. Many pursue this role to gain valuable experience, training, and career advancement opportunities, though the work can be demanding and fast-paced.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Biglaw associate?

To thrive as a Biglaw Associate, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school, bar admission, and strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Mastery of legal research databases (such as Westlaw and LexisNexis), document management systems, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, time management, and the ability to communicate clearly under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate legal work, efficient handling of large caseloads, and effective collaboration with clients and colleagues in a demanding environment.

What are the typical challenges faced by Biglaw associates in their first year, and how can they effectively manage them?

First-year Biglaw Associates often encounter challenges such as managing heavy workloads, meeting tight deadlines, and adapting to the fast-paced expectations of large law firms. Balancing multiple assignments from different partners and learning firm-specific procedures can be overwhelming. To manage these challenges, associates are encouraged to communicate proactively with supervising attorneys, prioritize tasks efficiently, and seek out mentorship or feedback from more experienced colleagues. Developing strong organizational skills and utilizing firm resources, such as training sessions and knowledge databases, can also help associates navigate their first year successfully.

What is the difference between Biglaw Associate vs Corporate Counsel?

AspectBiglaw AssociateCorporate Counsel
CredentialsJD degree, passing the bar examJD degree, bar admission often required
Work EnvironmentLarge law firms, fast-paced, billable hoursIn-house legal department, collaborative, strategic focus
Employer & IndustryMajor law firms, corporate clientsCorporations, internal legal teams
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Biglaw Associates typically work at large law firms handling complex legal matters for corporate clients, focusing on billable hours and client service. Corporate Counsel work in-house within a company's legal department, focusing on company-specific legal issues, compliance, and strategic advice. Both roles require a JD and bar admission, but differ in work environment and responsibilities.

What cities are hiring for Biglaw Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Biglaw Associate job openings:

What states have the most Biglaw Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Biglaw Associate jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Biglaw Associate jobs?

For Biglaw Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Commercial Finance Associate Attorney: Chambers Band-Ranked Finance Team + Low Billables

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Handle sophisticated private credit, asset-based lending, leveraged finance, and related credit facility matters.

  • Work directly with partners and clients to take ownership of legal matters and manage multiple transactions.

  • Draft, negotiate, and analyze legal documents related to commercial finance transactions.


Job description

Our client, a well-respected Atlanta mid-sized law firm, seeks a Commercial Finance Associate Attorney (3+ years) to join its Chambers Band-ranked Commercial Finance Practice Group, recognized as one of the best finance teams in Georgia.
The firm is made up largely of former BigLaw attorneys who wanted to continue handling sophisticated matters for sophisticated clients while building a more sustainable, collaborative practice. It offers BigLaw-caliber work in a warm, collegial environment with low billables and exceptionally low attorney turnover.
This is an excellent opportunity for a BigLaw associate who wants to take on more responsibility, work directly with partners and clients, and have greater ownership over their matters and long-term career.
Key Considerations:
  • Join a Chambers Band-ranked finance team recognized as one of the best in Georgia
  • Sophisticated private credit, asset-based lending, leveraged finance, and related credit facility matters
  • 1,850 billable hour requirement
  • Hybrid schedule offering greater flexibility and work-life balance
  • Exceptionally low associate turnover
  • Warm, collegial culture made up largely of former BigLaw attorneys
  • A strong alternative for BigLaw associates looking to remain on sophisticated matters while gaining more autonomy and responsibility
  • Opportunity to work more directly with partners and clients and take ownership of matters earlier in your career
  • Greater ability to shape your practice, develop client relationships, and have a voice in your work and long-term career trajectory
  • Strong platform representing national and regional financial institutions, private equity sponsors, investment funds, and other sophisticated clients
  • Private credit finance experience preferred, but not required

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Mid-level associate with 3+ years of experience in commercial finance
  • Experience with private credit, asset-based lending, leveraged finance, or related credit facilities
  • Experience representing financial institutions and/or investors
  • Strong analytical, drafting, and negotiation skills
  • Ability to manage multiple transactions in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong academic credentials
  • Team-oriented, detail-driven, and motivated to grow within a sophisticated finance practice

This is a rare opportunity for a BigLaw-trained attorney to join one of Georgia's leading finance teams, continue doing sophisticated work, and gain the autonomy, responsibility, and quality of life that can be difficult to find in a traditional BigLaw environment.
About Us:
We are a woman-owned, full-service legal recruiting and staffing firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We place attorneys and legal professionals in direct hire, contract-to-hire, and project roles with law firms and corporate legal departments nationwide.
Our mission is to help legal professionals do their best work, whether you're hiring or making a move. With a focus on quality over quantity, we deliver a thoughtful, people-first approach to recruiting.