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First Year Associate Attorney Jobs in California

Superior Executive And Legal Recruiting

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Associate Attorney

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... remote Associate Attorney with 1+ years of civil litigation experience . While employment law ... At least 1 year of plaintiff-side civil litigation experience. This role offers competitive ...

Zwicker & Associates, P.C.

Associate Attorney

Glendale, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The base salary range for this position is $120,000-$140,000 per year, plus applicable bonus. Responsibilities of Associate Attorneys include * Communicate effectively and appropriately with team ...

W3Global Inc.

Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$190K - $250K/yr

Recognized in the 2025 Chambers USA guide, home to a two-time California Lawyer of the Year Award ... POSITION OVERVIEW As an associate at our firm, you will handle complex, sometimes high-profile ...

Tucker Ellis LLP

Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$21K/yr

Litigation Associate Attorney- Mass Tort & Product Liability Location- Los Angeles, CA (Hybrid ... Starting range is at $210,00 + per year, depending on years of experience and qualifications.

Tucker Ellis LLP

Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$21K/yr

Litigation Associate Attorney- Mass Tort & Product Liability Location- Los Angeles, CA (Hybrid ... Starting range is at $210,00 + per year, depending on years of experience and qualifications.

Zwicker & Associates, P.C.

Associate Attorney

Glendale, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The base salary range for this position is $120,000-$140,000 per year, plus applicable bonus. Responsibilities of Associate Attorneys include * Communicate effectively and appropriately with team ...

SagePaths

Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$180K - $250K/yr

Associate Attorney Boutique Litigation Firm -- Downtown Los Angeles, CA About the Firm A well ... Annual discretionary bonus * 100 billable hour credit per year for marketing and networking ...

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$115K - $160K/yr

... people-first culture. Join a team that values long-term impact over short-term wins. Diversity ... Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

Folsom, CA · On-site +1

$115K - $160K/yr

... people-first culture. Join a team that values long-term impact over short-term wins. Diversity ... Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

... people-first culture. Join a team that values long-term impact over short-term wins. Diversity ... Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$115K - $160K/yr

... people-first culture. Join a team that values long-term impact over short-term wins. Diversity ... Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues

Zwicker & Associates, P.C.

Associate Attorney

Glendale, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The base salary range for this position is $120,000-$140,000 per year, plus applicable bonus. Responsibilities of Associate Attorneys include * Communicate effectively and appropriately with team ...

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$115K - $160K/yr

... people-first culture. Join a team that values long-term impact over short-term wins. Diversity ... Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues

Boutique Recruiting

Senior Associate Attorney

Irvine, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Senior Associate Attorney Salary Range: $150,000-$170,000 / DOE This is the opportunity to turn ... Medical, dental, and vision eligibility beginning the first of the month after hire * Unlimited ...

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$115K - $160K/yr

... people-first culture. Join a team that values long-term impact over short-term wins. Diversity ... Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$115K - $160K/yr

... people-first culture. Join a team that values long-term impact over short-term wins. Diversity ... Numerous social and off-site events each year to enrich your relationships with your colleagues

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Showing results 41-60

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 17, 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 August 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.

Associate Attorney

Superior Executive And Legal Recruiting

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Full-Time | Fully Remote 

Our client, a well-established California plaintiff-side labor and employment law firm, is seeking a fully remote Associate Attorney with 1+ years of civil litigation experience. While employment law experience is preferred, candidates with strong civil litigation backgrounds will also be considered.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:

  • 1+ years of civil litigation experience.
  • Hands-on experience with all phases of litigation, including:
    • Discovery
    • Depositions
    • Motion practice
    • Court hearings
  • The ability to independently manage an active caseload and communicate effectively with clients, opposing counsel, and the court.
  • Trial experience is not required.

About the Firm

  • Established California plaintiff-side employment law firm with a proven track record of success.
  • Represents employees exclusively in wage and hour and FEHA matters throughout California in state and federal courts, as well as arbitration.
  • Offers a collaborative environment with strong infrastructure, experienced support staff, and a steady flow of cases, allowing attorneys to make an immediate impact.

This is an excellent opportunity for a litigation attorney looking to transition into or continue building a career in plaintiff-side employment law while working remotely.

Requirements

  • Active California Bar license in good standing (required).
  • At least 1 year of plaintiff-side civil litigation experience.

This role offers competitive compensation and incentives. All resumes will be treated with strict confidence.