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Entry Level Federal Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL

Golden Law

Entry Level Associate Attorney

Broadview, IL · On-site

$75K/yr

... federal litigation. We are seeking motivated candidates with 0-2 years of experience for a ... Candidates sworn in as a new Illinois attorney in May 2026 are welcome to apply. The firm is ...

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Kluever Law Group, LLC

Office Services Clerk

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Entry Level Office Services Clerk Kluever Law Group, a boutique Chicago law firm is currently ... Detail Oriented - As our clients are federally regulated financial institutions, strict compliance ...

Foley Mansfield

Practice Assistant

Chicago, IL · On-site

Filing documents in state and federal courts. This is an entry-level position; we will provide ... Foley Mansfield is a national law firm with more than 110 attorneys in offices from coast to coast.

RSM

Tax Supervisor - Real Estate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $149K/yr

Our people work on key client issues in domestic federal taxation, with a focus on implementing tax ... RSM does not intend to hire entry level candidates who will require sponsorship now OR in the ...

Contact Government Services, LLC

Paralegal

Chicago, IL · On-site

Paralegal Employment Type: Full-Time, Entry Level Department: Legal As a CGS Paralegal, you will ... You will provide litigation and administrative support to a group of United States Attorneys. CGS ...

Contact Government Services, LLC

Paralegal

Chicago, IL · On-site

Paralegal Employment Type: Full-Time, Entry Level Department: Legal As a CGS Paralegal, you will ... You will provide litigation and administrative support to a group of United States Attorneys. CGS ...

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All JobsFederal Attorney JobsEntry Level Federal Attorney JobsEntry Level Federal Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Federal Attorney information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$63.9K

$142.6K

$210.7K

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 Chicago, IL is $142,600.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,800.00 and $166,400.00 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Federal Attorney job openings:

Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Federal Attorney job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,600 per year, or $68.6 per hour.

Entry Level Associate Attorney

Broadview, IL • On-site

Golden Law
See more jobs at Golden Lawexternal

$75K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Golden Law is a growing general practice law firm looking for a rainmaker, so we can continue to grow! We are located in Broadview, a near west Chicago suburb. We practice in various areas, including probate, estate planning, real estate, family law, employment discrimination, bankruptcy, landlord/tenant eviction, civil and federal litigation. We are seeking motivated candidates with 0-2 years of experience for a full-time in office associate attorney position. No previous experience is required and we will train the right person. Candidates sworn in as a new Illinois attorney in May 2026 are welcome to apply.


The firm is growing its practice, so the right candidate must be a self-starter, efficient, organized, able to work independently, motivated, and posses client development skills. In addition, the ideal candidate will have strong oral and written communication skills, excellent legal research skills, and interest in trial work. The firm provides continued opportunities for skill development and associate development. Salary commensurate with experience, and annual performance-based reviews.


Job Type: Full-time in office position.


Pay: $75,000 per year, % of billable hours for clients brought in (negotiable), and year-end performance award.


Benefits: Medical Insurance, IRA match, and 15 days of PTO available after 90 days; 11 federal holidays off; and Summer hours.


Please submit your cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references for consideration to chunter@goldenlawpc.com.

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