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Entry Level Government Attorney Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Attorney 1

Columbus, OH

Georgia State Government is a large enterprise, composed of various agencies and entities with a ... This position involves entry-level professional legal work, including assisting with criminal cases ...

All JobsGovernment Attorney JobsEntry Level Government Attorney JobsEntry Level Government Attorney Jobs in Ohio

Entry Level Government Attorney information

See Ohio salary details

$43.7K

$102.8K

$164K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level government attorney in Ohio is $102,827.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,100.00 and $123,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of cases and responsibilities can an entry level government attorney expect to handle in their first year?

As an entry level government attorney, you can expect to work on a variety of cases that may include legal research, drafting memoranda, assisting with litigation, and helping senior attorneys with document review. You might also represent the government in administrative hearings or help prepare legal opinions for agency staff. Collaboration with colleagues from different departments is common, providing valuable experience in teamwork and public service. The workload is often fast-paced, but offers excellent opportunities to develop foundational legal skills and gain exposure to a broad range of public sector legal issues.

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

AspectEntry Level Government AttorneyEntry Level Public Defender
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar AdmissionJuris Doctor (JD), Bar Admission
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, legal departmentsPublic defense offices, courts
Employer & IndustryFederal, state, or local governmentPublic defender offices, criminal justice
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level government legal rolesRelated to criminal defense in government

Entry Level Government Attorneys and Entry Level Public Defenders both require a JD and bar admission, working within government legal settings. While government attorneys may work in various agencies handling diverse legal matters, public defenders focus specifically on criminal defense for indigent clients. Both roles serve public interests but differ in their specific responsibilities and work environments.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Government Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a valid state bar license, and a solid understanding of legal research, writing, and litigation procedures. Familiarity with legal databases (such as Westlaw or LexisNexis), case management software, and government compliance systems is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in interpreting laws, drafting documents, and advising government agencies. These skills ensure accurate legal guidance, uphold public policy, and support the effective operation of governmental legal functions.

What does an entry level government attorney do?

An entry level government attorney typically provides legal advice, drafts legal documents, and represents government agencies in court or administrative hearings. Their duties may include conducting legal research, reviewing regulations, interpreting laws, and ensuring compliance with government policies. These attorneys often work on cases involving public interest, regulatory enforcement, or administrative law, and they may assist more senior attorneys on complex legal matters. Entry level roles are ideal for recent law graduates seeking experience in public service.
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Attorney jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Government Attorney jobs in Ohio are:
Entry Level Government Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Government Attorney job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,827 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Attorney 1

Georgia

Columbus, OH

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Explore a World of Opportunity with the State of Georgia!

We are the force that drives Georgia!
Georgia State Government is a large enterprise, composed of various agencies and entities with a common goal to improve the lives of Georgia's more than 10 million citizens!
Join Team Georgia and impact lives everyday while receiving a robust benefits package designed for every stage of your career!

Job Title:

Attorney 1

Job Requisition ID:

JR0000001475

Number of Openings:

1

Shift:

Day (United States of America)

Compensation Details:

$72,000.00

Job Description:

The Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit Public Defender's Office is seeking an Assistant Public Defender I. Primary responsibilities include representing indigent clients in criminal matters before the Superior Court. Qualified applicants must possess the skills and experience necessary to perform the duties of the position and must be active members in good standing with the State Bar of Georgia. A strong commitment to indigent defense is essential.

Interested applicants should apply on https://careers.georgia.gov/AND email a cover letter along with a resume to Thomas Flournoy III, Circuit Public Defender, at mflournoy@columbusga.org and Jose Guzman at jguzman@columbusga.org.

Description of Duties: The Assistant Public Defender I is responsible for providing competent, zealous representation and advocacy to indigent clients. This position involves entry-level professional legal work, including assisting with criminal cases of routine complexity. Candidates must possess a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited college or university and be licensed to practice law in the State of Georgia. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Juris Doctorate from an accredited college or university and license to practice law in the State of Georgia or eligibility to sit for the next Georgia Bar examination followed by Georgia Bar exam passage and licensure to practice law in the State of Georgia within one (1) year of hiring or reciprocity (must obtain Law License).--Note: Some positions may not allow the eligibility clause

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

The State of Georgia does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other protected categories in employment or the provision of services.
Qualified applicants may request reasonable accommodation when needed during the application and/or screening process by contacting the appropriate agency Human Resources department.

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