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Entry Level Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Paralegal

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$50/hr

You will assist attorneys prepare for trials while also doing research and writing. * A political ... This is an entry-level role. * Immediate hire. * Starting point for growth in our corporate ...

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Immigration Paralegal

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

We are seeking a paralegal with immigration law experience to support our attorneys in delivering ... some entry-level candidates may be considered on a case by case basis. Aside from being detail ...

Office Services Clerk

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Entry Level: Office Services Clerk Kluever Law Group, a boutique Chicago law firm is currently ... Escalations - Identify and escalate unusual or complex issues to supervising attorneys and clients.

General Clerk I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17.84/hr

This is an entry level clerical position that offers the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on ... S. Attorney's Office to the Courts and other agencies within the United States Courthouse.

General Clerk I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17.84/hr

This is an entry level clerical position that offers the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on ... S. Attorney's Office to the Courts and other agencies within the United States Courthouse.

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Attorney information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.4K

$111.5K

$177.8K

How much do entry level attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level attorney in Chicago, IL is $111,508.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $134,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level attorney?

Entry level attorneys are recent law school graduates or individuals who have recently passed the bar exam and are beginning their legal careers. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced attorneys and assist with research, drafting legal documents, and helping prepare cases. Entry level attorneys can work in various settings, including law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments. Their responsibilities often focus on learning practical legal skills and gaining experience in their chosen field of law.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission in your practicing state, and a solid grasp of legal research, writing, and analysis. Familiarity with legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency in document management systems are typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and time management skills help you build client relationships and manage caseloads effectively. These competencies are crucial for providing sound legal advice, meeting deadlines, and establishing a successful legal career.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level attorneys in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level attorneys often encounter challenges such as managing heavy workloads, adapting to the fast-paced environment of law firms, and bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical legal skills. Navigating client expectations, learning firm protocols, and handling multiple assignments simultaneously can feel overwhelming at first. To overcome these challenges, new attorneys should proactively seek feedback, build strong relationships with mentors and colleagues, and prioritize effective time management. Open communication and a willingness to continuously learn are key to successful integration and professional growth in the early stages of a legal career.

What is the difference between Entry Level Attorney vs Paralegal?

AspectEntry Level AttorneyParalegal
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar AdmissionAssociate's degree or paralegal certificate
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
Job ResponsibilitiesLegal research, drafting legal documents, client consultationsLegal research, document preparation, case organization

Entry Level Attorneys and Paralegals often work in similar environments and share some responsibilities, but attorneys require a JD and bar admission to practice law, while paralegals support attorneys without needing a law license. The roles differ mainly in legal authority and scope of work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Attorney jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Attorney job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Attorney job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,508 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Paralegal

Watson Dwyer Inc.

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

This is a paralegal trainee job if you have a BA degree and an interest in a career in the world of Law:
  • You will assist attorneys prepare for trials while also doing research and writing. 
  • A political science-related degree is essential and any internship or prior summer experience in a law firm will qualify you. 
  • Lots of deadlines and calendar management in this busy role.
  • Ideal candidate has knowledge of politics and is aware of  the legal process.
  • We offer excellent salary and benefits and growth opportunities.
  • This is an entry-level role.
  • Immediate hire.
  • Starting point for growth in our corporate litigation firm.

Watson Dwyer logo

About Watson Dwyer

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Watson Dwyer, established in 1990, is a privately owned staffing firm and Women Business Enterprise. We represent the best companies and employees in Chicago and around the country. With a reputation as a leader in the staffing industry, we are dedicated to providing complete staffing solutions in: Accounting, Administration, Finance, I.T., Legal, Marketing, Human Resources, Public Relations, Sales, and more.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1990