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Entry Level Federal Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Attorney

OR · Remote

$65K - $70K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking motivated entry level attorney to fight on behalf of injured and ... Demonstrated interest in federal law, international law, civil litigation, and helping exploited ...

Associate Attorney

OR · Remote

$65K - $70K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking motivated entry level attorney to fight on behalf of injured and ... Demonstrated interest in federal law, international law, civil litigation, and helping exploited ...

Incumbents perform entry level and/or intermediate level legal work in the area assigned for either ... Superior Court, Federal Court, and Appellate Courts which may include misdemeanor, felony ...

PR · Hybrid

Some working knowledge in state and federal tax law is a plus but is not required. Full time ... Ideal is an Entry Level L icensed Attorney with some tax or accounting/finance experience or ...

Associate Attorney

Madeira, OH · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

On-site , Madeira, OH (45243) | Compensation: $85,000 - $100,000 / year Level: Entry-Level to ... Ensure all legal actions are handled with strict adherence to state and federal regulations while ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Federal Attorney information

See salary details

$62K

$138.4K

$204.5K

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

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level federal attorney in the United States is $138,427.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,500.00 and $161,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Federal Attorney, and why are they important?

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 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.
More about Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Federal Attorney job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Attorney jobs? The most popular types of Federal Attorney jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Federal Attorney jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Federal Attorney job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,427 per year, or $66.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We're looking for an admitted attorney, for an extremely promising Criminal Defense Attorney position within a premier law firm. As the Criminal Defense Attorney, you will report to the Supervising Attorney. This Attorney will manage a caseload and will work with serious felony and federal cases. This person will also have client interaction as well as collaborate with our wonderful Criminal Defense Team of Attorney's and paralegals.

Responsibilities

  • Advise client on their legal rights in matters and draw up legal documents about their case
  • Attend pretrial hearings on behalf of clients and advise clients following each hearing about best strategies
  • Manage court appearance, trial, drafting motions, interviewing witnesses and performing legal research
  • Analyze probable outcomes of cases using knowledge of legal precedents
  • Manage workload of cases
  • Provide legal analysis for clients to determine any possible case benefits
  • Accrue additional evidence to support clients case or for arguments against the prosecutions charges
  • Prepare clients for testimony; determine essential goals of case strategy and gather information from witnesses and important experts that support client's positions

Qualifications

  • At least 7 to 15 years of Criminal Defense Experience
  • Trial experience is highly preferred
  • Experience handling complex criminal cases at the federal, state and local level
  • A team player who is open to helping, strategizing, and working with your fellow associates
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is strongly preferred, but not required
  • Interpersonal skills of the highest caliber

Salary: $80-$90k annually

Salary can be exceeded on a case-by-case basis.

Do you have a passion for Criminal Defense and a desire to practice within an organization with lots of room for growth? Here at The United Firm, we offer that, benefits (medical, dental and vision insurance), an excellent compensation package, paid parking, paid time off, and more! Come work as an Criminal Defense Attorney at a growing firm with opportunities to advance and learn alongside a team of professionals within' the legal industry.

The United Firm, APC is an equal employment opportunity employer, and we welcome everyone regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or genetics. We are dedicated to providing an inclusive, open, and diverse work environment.