ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Year Associate Attorney Jobs in California

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 ...

W3Global Inc.

Employment Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K - $190K/yr

We are seeking a 1-5 year Associate Attorney to join our Wage & Hour Class Action Department. Our firm differentiates itself through its investment in attorney development and firm culture. We offer:

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 27, 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 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,744 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

First Year Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel

Glendale, CA

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Direct Counsel is partnering with a highly respected plaintiff-side class action firm in Los Angeles—widely regarded as a powerhouse in wage-and-hour and consumer class action litigation—to add talented and motivated litigation associates to its growing team.

This firm is known for taking on regional, national, and Fortune 500 companies and winning. With an exceptionally active docket in both state and federal courts throughout California, the firm has recovered millions of dollars for thousands of employees and consumers and continues to scale its impact.

Hiring Criteria
  • Licensed to practice law in California or pending admission to the California bar.
  • Preferred: Experience in civil litigation, including experience in one or more of the following: discovery in the civil litigation context, oral advocacy and appearing in Court, motion practice, and taking/defending depositions
  • Candidates must be able to travel occasionally.
  • A positive attitude and interest in joining a highly successful firm and collegial group of 25+ attorneys dedicated to helping those who have experienced injustice in the workplace across California.
  • Excellent opportunity for career growth, with professional development, including employer support for training, courses, and continuing education
Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary Range: $130,000 – $170,000 (commensurate with experience, DOE, DOQ)

  • Medical insurance,

  • Vision insurance,

  • Dental insurance,

  • 401(k)

Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person