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Contract Attorney Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Contract Attorney (Of Counsel / Senior Counsel): set your own schedule, project by project, earning a percentage of your billable rate plus a client origination bonus Responsibilities • Manage ...

Attorney

Portland, OR · Hybrid

$120K/yr

Contract Attorney (Of Counsel / Senior Counsel): set your own schedule, project by project, earning a percentage of your billable rate plus a client origination bonus Compensation: $90,000 - $120,000 ...

Position Summary The Springs Living is seeking an Associate Attorney to provides legal support and ... Strong knowledge of employment law, contract law, and regulatory compliance * Experience advising ...

Position Summary The Springs Living is seeking an Associate Attorney to provides legal support and ... Strong knowledge of employment law, contract law, and regulatory compliance * Experience advising ...

Attorney Position MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971 ... Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services.

Attorney Position MPD has been on the cutting edge of public defense since our inception in 1971 ... Formed as a non-profit law firm, MPD contracts with the State of Oregon for public defense services.

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Attorney information

See Portland, OR salary details

$55.1K

$126.4K

$212.1K

How much do contract attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract attorney in Portland, OR is $126,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,900.00 and $147,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract attorney?

A contract attorney conducts research, prepares legal documents, and represents clients in a court of law. Contract attorneys are not permanent employees of law firms; they handle cases on behalf of law firms on a case-by-case basis. Much like standard attorneys, contract attorneys may specialize in a specific legal area, such as corporate law, family law, or criminal law. Law firms expect contract attorneys to uphold the same legal standards as traditional attorneys.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract attorney?

To thrive as a Contract Attorney, you need a solid understanding of contract law, strong legal research abilities, and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree with bar admission. Proficiency with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, and familiarity with document management systems, are typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, negotiation skills, and clear written and verbal communication distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are crucial for drafting, reviewing, and interpreting complex contracts while protecting clients' interests and minimizing legal risks.

What are the typical challenges a contract attorney faces when managing multiple clients or cases simultaneously?

Contract Attorneys often juggle several assignments from various clients or law firms, which can present challenges in time management, prioritization, and maintaining clear communication. Each client may have different expectations, document management systems, and deadlines, making it essential to stay organized and proactive in scheduling. Developing strong project management skills and using legal technology tools can help Contract Attorneys efficiently track tasks, ensure confidentiality, and meet deliverables across diverse projects.

What is the difference between Contract Attorney vs Staff Attorney?

AspectContract AttorneyStaff Attorney
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice lawJuris Doctor (JD), licensed to practice law
Work EnvironmentTemporary, project-based, often remote or on-siteFull-time, permanent, typically office-based
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporations, government agencies for specific projectsLaw firms, legal departments, courts for ongoing legal work
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Contract Attorneys are hired for specific projects or durations, offering flexibility and specialized expertise. Staff Attorneys hold permanent positions within organizations, providing ongoing legal support. Both roles require a JD and legal licensure but differ mainly in employment type and work setting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Contract Attorney jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Attorney jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Contract Attorney jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Contract Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Attorney job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 49% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 38% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,400 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description
We're looking for an experienced trusts & estates attorney ready to own client relationships, not just support someone else's. Whether you're an associate at a larger firm craving more direct client contact and less bureaucracy, or a solo practitioner tired of running a business instead of practicing law, this role offers a genuine shift in pace, clientele, and support - without giving up the complexity of work you enjoy.
Compensation & Benefits
We offer two paths, depending on what fits your goals:
  • Employee: Base salary, depending on experience, with incentive compensation; 401(k) with up to 3% match, robust health/dental/vision coverage, long-term disability insurance, paid sick leave, and unlimited PTO after six months.
  • Contract Attorney (Of Counsel / Senior Counsel): set your own schedule, project by project, earning a percentage of your billable rate plus a client origination bonus

Responsibilities
• Manage estate planning, probate, and trust administration matters, successfully representing client interests.
• Prepare transactional legal documents and related correspondence; prepare, review, and revise transactional legal documents, client memoranda, and related correspondence.
• Research and analyze various legal issues; prepare client memoranda and perform due diligence on client legal matters.
• Meet and correspond with clients regarding ongoing legal matters, creating and maintaining good rapport with clients, including communicating often and explaining complex legal proceedings and concepts.
• Manage client matters in collaboration with other members of the Catalyst team to ensure clients stay abreast of the progress of their matter.
• Assist and support team members with other projects as needed.
Qualifications
$43