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First Year Associate Attorney 2025 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This position is ideal for a new or early-career attorney seeking more than a narrow first-year associate role. The right candidate will receive training and mentorship while gaining early experience ...

Associate Attorney - LITIGATION Law firm is looking to bring on an experienced (2 to 5 year) associate attorney , lateral hire to assist in litigation. Real estate, banking, collection, construction ...

Associate Attorney

Orange, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

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Associate Attorney

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Associate Attorney

Walnut Creek, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

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Associate Attorney

Las Vegas, NV ยท On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Associate Attorney

Carlsbad, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Associate Attorney - Chattanooga, TN (Litigation / Insurance Defense) We are seeking a 3-5 year associate attorney to join our Chattanooga office. This role is ideal for someone who wants meaningful ...

Our client, a Nassau County based litigation law firms seeks a 1 to 4 year associate attorney with litigation experience to join their construction litigation practice. Firm handles construction and ...

Attorney

Orange, CA ยท On-site

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Attorney

Las Vegas, NV ยท On-site

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Attorney

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Attorney

Carlsbad, CA ยท On-site

Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...

Associate Attorney

Chattanooga, TN ยท On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a 2-6 year associate attorney to join our Chattanooga office. This role is ideal for someone who wants meaningful litigation experience in a stable, collegial environment--without the ...

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Dallas, TX ยท On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

Associate Attorney - Dallas/Fort Worth Area Clausen Miller P.C. is seeking a qualified Litigation ... Will consider a first-year attorney with prior civil litigation exposure or relevant experience

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First Year Associate Attorney 2025 information

See salary details

$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

How much do first year associate attorney 2025 jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year associate attorney 2025 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 is the difference between First Year Associate Attorney 2025 vs Litigation Associate?

AspectFirst Year Associate Attorney 2025Litigation Associate
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar AdmissionJuris Doctor (JD), Bar Admission
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
Industry UsageEntry-level legal role, often in law firms or corporate settingsMid-level to senior legal role focusing on litigation cases

The First Year Associate Attorney 2025 is an entry-level position for recent law graduates starting their legal careers, typically in law firms or corporate legal teams. A Litigation Associate is a more experienced role focused on managing litigation cases. While both require a JD and bar admission, the First Year Associate is usually a starting position, whereas Litigation Associates often have more experience in courtroom procedures and case management.

What are some of the common challenges faced by first year associate attorneys, and how can they effectively navigate them?

First year associate attorneys often encounter steep learning curves as they adapt to firm expectations, manage heavy workloads, and balance multiple deadlines. Navigating unfamiliar legal procedures and developing strong legal writing skills can be demanding, but seeking mentorship, proactively communicating with supervising attorneys, and utilizing firm resources can make the transition smoother. Building strong organizational habits and asking clarifying questions early on helps reduce mistakes and fosters professional growth. Regular feedback and openness to learning are key to long-term success in the role.

What are First Year Associate Attorneys?

First Year Associate Attorneys are entry-level lawyers who have recently graduated from law school and passed the bar exam. They typically work at law firms under the supervision of more experienced attorneys, handling legal research, drafting documents, and assisting with cases. Their responsibilities include learning firm procedures, developing professional skills, and supporting the firm's clients. This role serves as the foundation for their legal career, offering exposure to various areas of law and practical experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Year Associate Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Year Associate Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, strong legal research, and analytical writing skills. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw and LexisNexis, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, is typically expected. Exceptional attention to detail, strong work ethic, and effective communication and time management skills distinguish top performers. These abilities are vital for producing high-quality legal work, managing multiple assignments, and building trust with clients and senior attorneys.
More about First Year Associate Attorney 2025 jobs
What cities are hiring for First Year Associate Attorney 2025 jobs? Cities with the most First Year Associate Attorney 2025 job openings:
What states have the most First Year Associate Attorney 2025 jobs? States with the most job openings for First Year Associate Attorney 2025 jobs include:
Infographic showing various First Year Associate Attorney 2025 job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,160 per year, or $52 per hour.

First Year Associate (2026 Graduate) - New York

Segal McCambridge

New York, NY โ€ข On-site

$105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Segal McCambridge, a national litigation firm, is accepting resumes for First-Year Associate Attorneys to join our New York office. This role is open to recent or 2026 law school graduates who will begin after completion of the bar exam and are eager to launch their legal careers with meaningful, hands-on litigation experience from day one.
The associate will initially focus on toxic tort litigation and some general liability matters, working closely with experienced trial attorneys on sophisticated, high-exposure cases. This role also offers the opportunity and long-term goal of expanding into diversified practice areas as the associate develops professionally within the firm.
This is an exceptional opportunity to gain early litigation and case management experience while building a strong foundation in litigation strategy, advocacy, and client service.
What You'll Do:
โ€ข Work closely with partners and senior attorneys on active toxic tort and general liability matters
โ€ข Draft pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and legal correspondence
โ€ข Conduct legal research and analysis on substantive legal issues
โ€ข Assist with case strategy, fact investigation, and overall case management
โ€ข Prepare for and attend depositions, hearings, mediations, and court appearances
โ€ข Collaborate with clients, colleagues, experts, and support staff in a team-oriented environment
โ€ข Participate in firm-sponsored training and mentorship programs designed specifically for junior associates
โ€ข Gain exposure to additional litigation practice areas over time as part of the firm's commitment to professional development and diversified experience
What We're Looking For:
โ€ข J.D. from an accredited law school
โ€ข Bar admission pending or anticipated in Illinois
โ€ข Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
โ€ข A proactive mindset and eagerness to learn through hands-on experience
โ€ข Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
โ€ข Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
โ€ข Professionalism, accountability, and attention to detail
โ€ข Interest in litigation, including toxic tort and general liability defense
Why Join Segal McCambridge?
At Segal McCambridge, first-year associates are not sidelined. You'll receive structured training, close mentorship, and real responsibility from the outset. Our trial-focused culture emphasizes learning by doing, with partners who are invested in your development and long-term growth.
Associates in the New York office gain immediate exposure to toxic tort and general liability litigation while also having opportunities to work across a broader range of practice areas as their careers evolve. We are committed to helping associates develop into well-rounded litigators with meaningful client interaction and practical courtroom experience early in their careers.
Compensation & Benefits:
Salary - $105,000 with potential for bonus and business origination credit
โ€ข Bar preparation reimbursement
โ€ข Comprehensive benefits package, including:
โ€ข 401(k) with firm match
โ€ข Health, dental, and vision insurance
โ€ข Health savings and flexible spending accounts
โ€ข Paid time off and parental leave
โ€ข Life insurance
โ€ข Professional development and CLE support
โ€ข Employee assistance program
โ€ข Referral bonuses
About Segal McCambridge:
Founded in 1986, Segal McCambridge has grown from a four-attorney firm in Chicago into a national litigation firm with offices in more than 15 cities. We represent a diverse client base, including Fortune 500 companies, in complex litigation matters such as asbestos, product liability, class action, environmental, professional liability, cyber risk, and other high-exposure disputes.