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Entry Level Federal Attorney Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Seeking an entry level Associate Attorney and mid-level Associate Attorney with experience in ... and federal agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The firm's promise: "Serving to Achieve ...

Entry Level Federal Attorney information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$59.6K

$133.1K

$196.7K

How much do entry level federal attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level federal attorney in Atlanta, GA is $133,119.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,300.00 and $155,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level federal attorney?

An entry level federal attorney is a licensed lawyer who has recently graduated from law school and works for the federal government, often within agencies like the Department of Justice or other federal departments. These attorneys handle a variety of legal tasks such as researching legal issues, drafting documents, assisting with litigation, and providing legal advice under the supervision of experienced attorneys. Entry level positions are typically filled through programs like the Department of Justice Honors Program or through direct hire into federal agencies. The work provides valuable experience in federal law and public service, and often serves as a stepping stone for a career in government or public interest law.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Federal Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school, strong legal research and writing skills, and successful completion of a state bar exam. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and knowledge of federal court procedures are typically required. Attention to detail, strong ethical judgment, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are essential for producing high-quality legal work, complying with federal standards, and effectively representing the government’s interests.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level federal attorneys during their first year on the job?

Entry level federal attorneys often encounter a steep learning curve as they familiarize themselves with complex federal statutes, procedures, and the expectations of their specific agency. Balancing a high volume of casework with ongoing training and adapting to the formalities of federal court can be demanding. Additionally, new attorneys must quickly develop strong research, writing, and oral advocacy skills while collaborating with experienced colleagues and supervisors. Building confidence in making legal decisions and managing time effectively are common challenges, but many agencies offer mentorship and professional development resources to support early career attorneys.

What is the difference between Entry Level Federal Attorney vs Entry Level Public Defender?

AspectEntry Level Federal AttorneyEntry Level Public Defender
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar AdmissionJuris Doctor (JD), Bar Admission
Work EnvironmentFederal agencies, government offices, federal courtsPublic defender offices, local courts
Employer & IndustryFederal government, legal, criminal justicePublic sector, criminal defense

Both roles require a JD and bar admission, working within the criminal justice system. An Entry Level Federal Attorney typically works for federal agencies handling federal cases, while an Entry Level Public Defender works for public defender offices representing indigent clients in criminal cases at the local level. The main difference lies in the jurisdiction and employer setting, but both are entry-level legal roles in criminal law.

What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Attorney jobs in Atlanta, GA?

The most popular types of Federal Attorney jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs in Atlanta, GA?

For Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs in Atlanta, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Federal Attorney job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,119 per year, or $64 per hour.

Associate Attorney

Hall Booth Smith PC

Alpharetta, GA • On-site

$125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Alpharetta, GA office of Hall Booth Smith, P.C. (HBS) is growing and is seeking Associate Attorneys to join its expanding civil litigation practice group. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing team, work alongside experienced litigators, contribute to case strategy and development, and build strong relationships with firm clients.
Seeking an entry level Associate Attorney and mid-level Associate Attorney with experience in litigation, focusing on general liability, construction, premises liability, transportation, and/or insurance coverage; transferrable litigation experiences are welcome. Candidates must be active members in good standing of the Georgia Bar.
Responsibilities:
  • Represent and defend clients in hearings, trials, and depositions
  • Effectively communicate with clients about their cases, providing consistent updates and comprehensive legal advice
  • Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, prepare legal documents, and prepare and respond to discovery
  • Collaborate closely with partners, associates, and other team members in building and executing successful defense strategies

Qualifications:
  • Active membership in good standing with the Georgia Bar
  • Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and communication skills
  • Strong interest in attending trial and utilizing litigation skills
  • Ability to develop and execute defense litigation strategies, exercise sound judgment, and effectively manage case responsibilities

Compensation:
Entry level (0-1 year litigation experience) salary starting at $125,000; Mid-level (3+ years' litigation experience) salary is commensurate with experience, two bonus structures, plus an excellent comprehensive benefits package.
About Hall Booth Smith
Established in 1989, HBS is a full-service law firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. Experienced across a wide range of legal disciplines, HBS attorneys pride themselves on providing knowledgeable, proactive, client-specific counsel to individuals, domestic and international corporations, state and federal agencies, and nonprofit organizations. The firm's promise: "Serving to Achieve Excellence."
HBS currently has nearly 400 attorneys spread across 30 offices in 12 states. HBS prides itself on its firm and individual staff accolades. It has been consistently selected by the Atlanta Journal Constitution as one of Atlanta's Top Workplaces since 2008 as well as recognized on the Top Workplaces USA lists, and our offices continuously receive regional awards for employee quality and service. The firm is committed to providing a supportive environment for attorneys to represent clients with excellence and to develop and grow in their practice.
Diversity & Inclusion
HBS is committed to cultivating an environment of inclusion, which we believe contributes to the overall success of all individuals. We are committed to a cohesive and productive work environment in which our different cultures, backgrounds, ethnicities, and perspectives are communicated, understood, and embraced to enrich our employees and best serve our clients.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Our Firm is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit to ensure the best fit in every position.
The Firm is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit to ensure the best fit in every position. HBS prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, gender, gender identification, religion, religious belief or affiliation, marital status, same-sex partner status, family status, veteran status, age, genetic information, national origin or ancestry, social origin or condition, ethnic origin, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including, but not limited to genetic characteristics or HIV/AIDS status), pregnancy, sexual orientation, political belief or affiliation, being a victim of domestic violence, being a victim (or subject of) sexual aggression and/or stalking or being perceived as such, reproductive health choices, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, commonwealth or local laws (Protected Characteristics).
The Firm also prohibits unlawful discrimination based on the perception that anyone has any Protected Characteristics or is associated with a person who has or is perceived as having any of those characteristics. All such discrimination is unlawful and specifically prohibited at the Firm. This policy applies to all personnel and employment practices, including the following: hiring, promotion, transfer, recruitment or recruitment advertising, layoff or termination, compensation, benefits, performance management, selection for training, educational programs, and other similar employment decisions.
Benefits
HBS offers eligible employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage along with retirement savings plans and disability insurance options. We also offer an Employee Assistance Program to aid with work-life balance and related concerns as well as flexible time off plans encompassing accrued Paid Time Off (PTO), paid parental leave, paid holidays, and multiple other options to help work with employee schedules as needed.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.