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First Year Associate Attorney Jobs in California

Jobot

Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$95K - $150K/yr

Why join us? ----- As a First Year Attorney / First Year Associate in our firm, we are able to offer: * A competitive base salary with bonus incentive program * Generous Benefits Package (medical and ...

Recruitify

Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA

$120K - $160K/yr

We are open to attorneys ranging from newly licensed first-year associates to attorneys with approximately five years of litigation experience. Whether you're looking to launch your litigation career ...

Boutique Recruiting

Associate Attorney

Fresno, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Associate Attorney This position offers a unique opportunity for an attorney to join a well ... of 100% of the first 3% contributed, plus 50% of the next 2% * 9 paid holidays per year * 10 ...

Percy Towers

Mid-Level Associate

Los Angeles, CA

$310K - $365K/yr

A premier international law firm is seeking a 4th-5th year Mid-Level Associate Attorney to join its Litigation practice group in Los Angeles. Role Description: The successful candidate will manage ...

Boutique Recruiting

Associate Attorney

Corona, CA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

Salary Range: $100,000 - $180,000 / Year DOE Associate Attorney Responsibilities: * Handle all aspects of personal injury litigation, including case strategy, discovery, motion practice, and trial ...

Boutique Recruiting

Associate Attorney

Culver City, CA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

Salary Range: $100,000 - $180,000 / Year DOE Associate Attorney Responsibilities: * Handle all aspects of personal injury litigation, including case strategy, discovery, motion practice, and trial ...

Boutique Recruiting

Associate Attorney

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

Salary Range: $100,000 - $180,000 / Year DOE Associate Attorney Responsibilities: * Handle all aspects of personal injury litigation, including case strategy, discovery, motion practice, and trial ...

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All JobsFirst Year Associate Attorney JobsFirst Year Associate Attorney Jobs in California

First Year Associate Attorney information

See California salary details

$45.4K

$106.7K

$170.2K

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year associate attorney in California is $106,744.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first year associate attorney?

A First Year Associate Attorney is a newly hired lawyer at a law firm, typically in their first year of practicing law after graduating from law school and passing the bar exam. These associates work under the supervision of more experienced attorneys, assisting with legal research, drafting documents, and supporting case preparation. Their primary focus is on learning firm procedures, building foundational legal skills, and gaining practical experience in their chosen area of law. The position is usually the entry-level role for attorneys at most law firms.

What are some common challenges faced by first year associate attorneys, and how can they effectively manage their workload?

First Year Associate Attorneys often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple assignments, meeting tight deadlines, and adapting to the firm's expectations for quality and accuracy. Effective time management and clear communication with supervising attorneys are essential skills to develop early on. It's helpful to proactively seek feedback, ask questions to clarify tasks, and use organizational tools to prioritize work. Building strong relationships with peers and mentors can also provide valuable support and guidance as you navigate the demands of the role.

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 writing skills, and a solid understanding of core legal concepts. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and experience with case management systems are typically required. Excellent communication, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage time efficiently are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure effective client service, high-quality legal work, and successful collaboration within a fast-paced law firm environment.

What cities in California are hiring for First Year Associate Attorney jobs?

Cities in California with the most First Year Associate Attorney job openings:

First Year Associate Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Associate Attorney job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,744 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

First Year Associate (2026 Graduate) - Los Angeles

Segal McCambridge

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$115K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Segal McCambridge, a national litigation firm, is accepting resumes for First-Year Associate Attorneys to join our Los Angeles 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 be exposed to a variety of 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:
Work closely with partners and senior attorneys on active general liability matters
Draft pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and legal correspondence
Conduct legal research and analysis on substantive legal issues
Assist with case strategy, fact investigation, and overall case management
Prepare for and attend depositions, hearings, mediations, and court appearances
Collaborate with clients, colleagues, experts, and support staff in a team-oriented environment
Participate in firm-sponsored training and mentorship programs designed specifically for junior associates
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:
J.D. from an accredited law school
Bar admission pending or anticipated in California
Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
A proactive mindset and eagerness to learn through hands-on experience
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Professionalism, accountability, and attention to detail
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 Los Angeles office gain immediate exposure to 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 - $115,000 with potential for bonus and business origination credit
Bar preparation reimbursement
Comprehensive benefits package, including:
401(k) with firm match
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Health savings and flexible spending accounts
Paid time off and parental leave
Life insurance
Professional development and CLE support
Employee assistance program
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.