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Entry Level Big Law Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our business-minded law firm is small enough that everyone is a critical part of the Team, yet big enough to offer the security and benefits you want. We are hiring an experienced Family Law Attorney ...

Salary: $75,000 - $90,000 per year A bit about us: ----- Our client is a very well respected boutique family law firm. They have a very low billable hour requirement, and are open to training the ...

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Entry Level Big Law Attorney information

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$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

How much do entry level big law attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level big law attorney 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 an entry level big law attorney?

Entry level Big Law attorneys are recent law school graduates or early-career lawyers who have just started working at large, prestigious law firms, often referred to as 'Big Law' firms. These firms typically have hundreds of attorneys and handle high-profile corporate cases, mergers, and litigation. Entry level attorneys, also known as associates, usually perform tasks such as legal research, drafting documents, and assisting senior lawyers while learning the ropes of complex legal work. The position is demanding, with long hours and high expectations, but offers competitive salaries and significant career growth opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level big law attorney?

To thrive as an Entry Level Big Law Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor degree, strong academic credentials, and excellent research, writing, and analytical skills. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, as well as proficiency in document management systems, is often required. Exceptional attention to detail, time management, and effective communication enhance performance in demanding environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for managing complex cases, meeting tight deadlines, and delivering high-quality client service in a fast-paced law firm.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level big law attorneys, and how can they navigate them effectively?

Entry level attorneys in Big Law often encounter challenges such as managing high workloads, adapting to a fast-paced environment, and learning to prioritize tasks across multiple cases. It's common to work long hours and juggle assignments from several senior attorneys at once. To navigate these challenges, it's important to communicate proactively, seek feedback regularly, and develop strong organizational habits. Many firms also offer mentorship programs and training sessions to support new associates as they adjust to the firm's expectations and culture.

What is the difference between Entry Level Big Law Attorney vs Associate Attorney?

AspectEntry Level Big Law AttorneyAssociate Attorney
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar AdmissionJuris Doctor (JD), Bar Admission
Work EnvironmentLarge law firms, high-pressure, client-focusedLaw firms, corporate legal departments, similar high-pressure settings
Employer & IndustryMajor law firms, corporate clientsLaw firms, corporate legal teams, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Big Law Attorneys and Associate Attorneys typically share similar credentials, work environments, and employer types. The main difference lies in terminology: 'Entry Level Big Law Attorney' emphasizes the initial position in large law firms, while 'Associate Attorney' is a broader term used across various law firm sizes and sectors. Both roles involve legal research, drafting, and client interaction, serving as foundational positions for legal careers.

More about Entry Level Big Law Attorney jobs

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Big Law Attorney jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Big Law Attorney job openings:

What states have the most Entry Level Big Law Attorney jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Big Law Attorney jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Big Law Attorney jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Big Law Attorney jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Big Law Attorney job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,160 per year, or $52 per hour.

$160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

This role is in Wake County, NC

Are you an experienced Family Law Attorney who is looking to make a change? Want to work somewhere where you are appreciated and valued? Want to be part of a Team with other experienced Lawyers who you can talk strategy, bounce ideas off, and who have your back? Want a flexible work environment that is family-friendly? Would you like a better work/life balance? Then, Triangle Smart Divorce is the place for you!


Our Wake County, North Carolina Law Firm is growing and looking for a talented, experienced Lawyer.


This is not the typical law firm! Our business-minded law firm is small enough that everyone is a critical part of the Team, yet big enough to offer the security and benefits you want.


We are hiring an experienced Family Law Attorney to help us protect smart people from making stupid decisions when getting married and divorced. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in family law, a proven track record of successfully handling cases, and a passion for advocating on behalf of clients facing challenging family-related legal issues.


Compensation is based on experience and includes a generous benefits package, including employer-paid health insurance and a 401(k).

Compensation:

$125,000 - $160,000 + based on experience


Responsibilities:
  • Represent Clients in family law matters, including divorce, equitable distribution, child custody, child support, and spousal support.
  • Being understanding, compassionate, and honest with Clients about their problems and understanding how Clients’ problems are more than legal problems to them.
  • Foster positive relationships with Clients.
  • Provide excellent customer service.
  • Develop a case strategy, provide direction, and oversee Paralegals, Legal Assistants, and other members of the Legal Team.
  • Negotiate and draft Separation Agreements.
  • Draft and review Pleadings, Motions, Discovery, and Orders.
  • Negotiate settlements when appropriate, including representing Clients in Mediation and Settlement Conferences.
  • Prepare and negotiate Premarital Agreements.
  • Strong Courtroom and negotiation skills.
  • Communicate effectively with Clients, opposing counsel, and the Court.
  • Impressive legal analysis and writing skills.
  • Stay up-to-date on changes in family law legislation and cases.


Every member of our Team must follow our SMART Core Values, which include: Service, Mindfulness, Authenticity, Responsibility, and Truth. 


Qualifications:
  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school is required.
  • Must be a licensed attorney, in Good Standing, with the State of North Carolina.
  • We are looking for someone who is diligent, conscientious, thorough, and able to deliver high-quality products and services to Clients.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a Team.
  • Our Attorneys must be detail-oriented but also flexible.
  • Must be empathic and understanding to Clients.
  • Strongly prefer someone with at least 7 years of Family Law Experience.
  • Must have prior experience managing a full caseload.
  • Must have prior trial experience in Family Law matters.
  • Demonstrated success in representing Clients in Family Law matters.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Experience with high-net-worth cases, including business evaluations and working with business owners, is a plus.


Please include a cover letter letting us know what you are looking for in your next opportunity and why you think you would be a good fit for our Firm.


Benefits:

  • Employer contributions to 401(k) Plan 
  • 100% employer-paid health insurance
  • Employer contributions to an HSA Plan
  • Employer-paid vacations and holidays
  • Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability 
  • Employer-Paid Life Insurance Policy
  • Maternity and Paternity Benefits
  • Casual dress code 
  • 1-on-1 meetings with the C-Suite monthly 
  • Legal Team members available for strategy
  • Opportunities to grow personally and professionally
  • Family-friendly environment


Want to know what it is like to work at Triangle Smart Divorce? Hear what our Team has to say!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z26Cyftznq4


About Company

We specialize in helping people make smart decisions that lead to better results for all involved, whether you are starting a relationship, ending a relationship, or are already divorced.

We work hard but have fun along the way. Our tagline, “Not your typical law firm,” applies to our workplace, too. We push boundaries, actively market our Firm, and only work with clients who align with our values. We encourage our employees to have a life outside work, believing well-rounded lives make us all more successful.

We’re a data-driven firm that loves systems. We focus on causes that lead to effects, using systematic hiring, onboarding, and training processes to help you succeed. Once hired, you’ll undergo rigorous training to learn about the Firm’s policies, systems, and procedures. But training doesn’t stop there—we offer in-house workshops, support personal development, and provide opportunities for continued learning and growth.