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Entry Level Government Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lake County, IL

Assistant State's Attorney

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$85K/yr

If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our ... The Criminal Division of the Lake County State's Attorney's Office is seeking an entry-level ...

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TDI- Attorney I-II

Austin, TX · On-site

... development, government regulation, health and insurance law. Student Loan Relief: TDI is a ... Litigation Attorney I-II (Attorney) Performs entry level to routine (journey-level) to moderate ...

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Entry Level Government Attorney information

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$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

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

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level government 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 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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Entry Level Government Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Government Attorney jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Government Attorney job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Attorney jobs? The most popular types of Government Attorney jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Government Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Government Attorney jobs include:
Entry Level Government Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Government Attorney job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,160 per year, or $52 per hour.
Assistant State's Attorney

Assistant State's Attorney

Lake County, IL

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Salary: $85,193.00 Annually
Location : Waukegan, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 03002
Department: State's Attorney
Opening Date: 06/11/2026
Closing Date: 6/16/2026 11:59 PM Central
Salary Grade: Salary.12
General Description
Are you looking for a challenging role within an organization that provides rewarding compensation, an excellent benefits package, and career growth opportunities? If so, Lake County Government is the place for you. Comprised of nearly 3,000 employees, it is our goal to positively serve the residents of Lake County while working with a purpose. We believe our employees should take pride in the work they accomplish while truly respecting a collaborative work environment.
The Criminal Division of the Lake County State's Attorney's Office is seeking an entry-level attorney in our Misdemeanor/Traffic Division. Applicants should be eager to litigate in a high-volume courtroom. The position involves managing a misdemeanor and traffic caseload, negotiating cases, motion practice, and trials. Prior experience is not necessary. The State's Attorney's Office offers flexible scheduling and the ability to work remotely one day per week.
Essential Functions
  • Conducts traffic and misdemeanor bench and jury trials.
  • Runs traffic court calls at one of our off-site branch courts.
  • Organizes and prepares traffic and misdemeanor status and trial calls.
  • Exercises independent discretion in charging misdemeanor cases.
  • Evaluates and negotiates traffic and misdemeanor cases.
  • Interacts effectively with law enforcement agencies, colleagues, and Judges.

Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must, at a minimum, meet the following qualifications:
  • Must be a licensed attorney in Illinois or awaiting bar results with an active 711 license.
  • Good knowledge of criminal law, criminal procedure, and rules of evidence.
  • Ability to analyze facts, exercise sound judgment, and determine appropriate case resolutions.
  • Willingness to litigate in a courtroom and constantly improve trial skills.
  • Ability and willingness to learn and utilize technology, including, but not limited to, basic computer knowledge, courtroom technology, and courtroom presentations.
Competency
To perform the job successfully, an individual must demonstrate the following competencies:
  • Candidates must have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent oral and written communication skills, and be able to practice strategic thinking.
  • Organization, attention to detail, and sound judgment are required.
  • Candidates must take initiative and be adaptable to changes in the work environment.
  • Dependability and punctuality are imperative for success in this role.
Education and/or Other Requirements
  • Completion of a Juris Doctorate program.
  • Licensed Attorney in the State of Illinois or a new graduate awaiting bar results with an active 711 license.
  • Valid Driver's License.

Supplemental Information
Reasonable accommodations may be made in order to perform the essential functions. This job description describes a general category of jobs. In order to meet the needs of Lake County Government or its departments, employees may be assigned other duties, in addition to or in lieu of those described above, and any duties are subject to change at any time.
Lake County offers a competitive salary and benefits package. We also offer flexible working hours, and a comprehensive wellness and training program. Visit our page to get additional information on why you should work for Lake County!
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screening and drug testing.
Lake County is committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer.
The County offers an extensive benefits package to eligible employees including health, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, deferred compensation plans, and so much more! Below are resources for the County's current benefits.
You can find additional details on our benefits at and

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