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Entry Level Legal Counsel Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

All JobsLegal Counsel JobsEntry Level Legal Counsel JobsEntry Level Legal Counsel Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Legal Counsel information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$36K

$150.2K

$219.6K

How much do entry level legal counsel jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level legal counsel in Riverside, CA is $150,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,600.00 and $179,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to make $500,000 as a lawyer?

Entry level legal counsels typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high earnings usually come with extensive experience, specialization in lucrative areas like corporate law or intellectual property, and working at large firms or in senior roles. Building a strong reputation, developing specialized skills, and gaining experience over several years are essential steps toward higher compensation in the legal field.

What is the 80 20 rule for lawyers?

The 80/20 rule for lawyers suggests that roughly 80% of a legal practice's results come from 20% of its efforts or clients. Entry level legal counsel can apply this by focusing on high-value cases or tasks that yield the most significant outcomes, improving efficiency and effectiveness in their work.

Do lawyers make $500,000 a year?

Entry level legal counsel positions typically do not pay $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually reserved for experienced attorneys in specialized or senior roles, often within large firms or corporate legal departments. Most entry level roles offer salaries significantly below that figure, with compensation increasing with experience, skills, and location.

What types of cases or matters might an entry level legal counsel typically handle in their first year?

As an entry level legal counsel, you'll often start by assisting with research, drafting contracts, reviewing legal documents, and supporting more senior attorneys with case preparation. You may work on a variety of matters such as compliance reviews, employment issues, intellectual property filings, or corporate governance tasks, depending on the organization's industry. This exposure provides a foundation in legal processes and helps you develop critical skills while gradually introducing you to more complex responsibilities. Collaboration with other departments, such as HR or finance, is common and helps you understand the broader business context.

What is the difference between Entry Level Legal Counsel vs Legal Intern?

AspectEntry Level Legal CounselLegal Intern
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar Admission (if applicable)Enrolled in law school or recent graduate
Work EnvironmentFull-time, permanent position within a legal teamTemporary, part-time or summer position, often unpaid or low-paid
Employer & Industry UsageLaw firms, corporations, government agenciesLaw firms, legal departments, government offices
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Entry Level Legal Counsel is a full-time, permanent role requiring a JD and bar admission, focusing on legal advice and contract review. Legal Interns are typically law students or recent grads in temporary positions, gaining experience. The main difference lies in job stability, responsibilities, and qualifications required.

Is $900 an hour a lot for a lawyer?

For an entry-level legal counsel, earning $900 an hour is significantly above typical rates, which usually range from $100 to $300 per hour depending on the region and firm size. Such high rates are more common for experienced or specialized attorneys rather than entry-level positions, which often pay lower hourly fees or salaries. Skills, certifications, and the complexity of legal work influence billing rates in the legal field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Legal Counsel, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Legal Counsel, you need a law degree, strong research and analytical skills, and admission to the bar in your practicing jurisdiction. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency in drafting legal documents are typically required. Attention to detail, ethical judgment, and effective communication are essential soft skills that set candidates apart. These abilities are crucial for providing accurate legal advice, ensuring compliance, and building trust with clients and colleagues.

What does an entry level legal counsel do?

An entry level legal counsel assists an organization or law firm by providing legal support, conducting legal research, drafting documents, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. They may help review contracts, support senior attorneys, and communicate with clients or internal teams about legal issues. Their work is often supervised, and they gain hands-on experience while developing their legal skills and knowledge. Entry level legal counsels are essential in helping organizations navigate the legal landscape and mitigate risks.
What are the most commonly searched types of Legal Counsel jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Legal Counsel jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Legal Counsel jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Legal Counsel jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Legal Counsel jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Legal Counsel jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Legal Counsel jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Legal Counsel job openings:
Entry Level Legal Counsel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Legal Counsel job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,249 per year, or $72.2 per hour.
Entry Level Attorney - Consumer Defense (Hybrid)

Entry Level Attorney - Consumer Defense (Hybrid)

COMMUNITY LEGAL AID SOCAL

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description:


Are you a newly licensed attorney eager to gain hands-on experience by standing up for consumers facing unfair business practices?


The Attorney will join the Consumer Defense Unit to help low-income individuals protect their rights in debt collection lawsuits, default judgments, and other consumer-related legal matters in Orange and Los Angeles Counties. This role provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact through direct representation, advocacy, and client-centered legal services for communities facing financial hardship.


This is a two-year, full-time, exempt position based in the Santa Ana office and reports to the Supervising Attorney. The position may become permanent, subject to funding availability. Applicants must be active members of the California Bar and within three years of post-law school graduation.


Responsibilities:

  • Provide litigation support and manage an individual caseload under attorney supervision, including motion practice, negotiations, settlements, trials, and client advocacy in consumer defense matters.
  • Interview, advise, and represent clients on debt collection, credit reporting, and related consumer issues using trauma-informed approaches.
  • Engage in community outreach and education by leading “Know Your Rights” workshops, educating homeowners on protecting home equity, and collaborating with community groups and coalitions focused on consumer and financial justice.
  • Develop and deploy multilingual educational materials and social media campaigns to expand consumer awareness and protect vulnerable homeowners.
  • Interview and communicate with clients effectively and empathetically while maintaining detailed, accurate case notes and timekeeping in Legal Server.
  • Conduct case investigations, witness interviews, and thorough factual and legal research to support effective advocacy.
  • Draft pleadings, motions, memoranda, correspondence, and other legal documents in consumer defense matters.
  • Collaborate with community organizations, conduct outreach and education, and coordinate wrap-around legal services with CLA SoCal’s other legal units.
  • Work with a multicultural perspective of inclusion.
  • Perform other duties as required to meet organizational needs.
Requirements:


Education:

  • Juris Doctor and active membership in good standing with the State Bar of California
  • Graduated from law school within 3 years prior to hiring date.

Qualifications:

  • Comfortable providing real-time legal counsel and advice with attention to detail and professionalism.
  • Organized and able to manage multiple responsibilities, meet deadlines, and work independently.
  • Demonstrated ability to work empathetically with indigent clients using client-centered and trauma-informed approaches.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and document preparation software, with a strong commitment to social justice.
  • Familiarity or interest with consumer law, debt collection defense, and credit reporting issues – Preferred.
  • Familiarity or interest with foreclosure process, mortgage arrearage payments, loss mitigation, and/or homeowners’ legal options - Preferred.
  • Litigation experience, including discovery, depositions, and trial representation – Preferred.
  • Bilingual proficiency – Preferred.
  • Strong advocacy skills with excellent written and oral communication abilities.
  • Commitment to CLA SoCal’s mission and values.
  • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel within the service area.

Holistic Benefits:

  • Hybrid Schedule
  • Bilingual bonus pay for qualified staff
  • May work as little as 35-hour workweek.
  • 16 paid holidays + PTO (including wellness days) starting Day 1
  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and long-term disability
  • 401(k) with employer contribution
  • Student loan reimbursement program

About CLA SoCal:

Community Legal Aid SoCal (CLA SoCal) is a welcoming and hopeful non-profit organization dedicated to meeting the legal needs of low-income residents and seniors throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties. We provide equal employment opportunities. We strongly encourage all interested individuals to apply, including people of different abilities, religions, identities, orientations, nationalities, and ethnicities. All individuals who are seeking a welcoming environment who celebrate and value the unique characteristics of every member of the team who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive at CLA SoCal to apply for this role.