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First Year Associate Attorney Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Michigan Advocacy Program

Staff Attorney

Lansing, MI · On-site

The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking two full-time attorneys with a demonstrated ... MAP also has a generous leave policy allowing staff to accrue 3 weeks paid vacation the first year ...

Michigan Advocacy Program

Staff Attorney

Lansing, MI · On-site

$60K/yr

POSITION: The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking two full-time attorneys with a ... MAP also has a generous leave policy allowing staff to accrue 3 weeks paid vacation the first year ...

Protouch Staffing

Corporate/M&A Attorney

Ann Arbor, MI

$200K - $250K/yr

Our client is seeking an experienced attorney to join their Corporate Practice Team in one of their ... Qualifications: * 5-12 years of law firm experience, with first or second chair experience on ...

Coonen Law, PLLC

Attorney

Comstock Park, MI · On-site

Our caseload has doubled year-over-year, and we're looking to double it again. We believe in doing work that matters, leading with heart and integrity, and building a team where accountability is ...

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All JobsFirst Year Associate Attorney JobsFirst Year Associate Attorney Jobs in Michigan

First Year Associate Attorney information

See Michigan salary details

$40.1K

$94.3K

$150.3K

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

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year associate attorney in Michigan is $94,272.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $113,300.00 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 Michigan are hiring for First Year Associate Attorney jobs? Cities in Michigan 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 Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,272 per year, or $45.3 per hour.
Staff Attorney

Staff Attorney

Michigan Advocacy Program

Lansing, MI • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Salary: starting at $60,000 depending on experience

POSITION: The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking two full-time attorneys with a demonstrated commitment to public interest advocacy to serve as a Staff Attorney in our MI Community, Home, and Health Ombudsman Program. This program represents long term care consumers who want to receive services and support in their own homes and communities instead of in nursing homes as well as individuals with dual Medicare and Medicaid enrollment. Responsibilities for this position include:

  • Managing an individual caseload
  • Representing clients in administrative or court hearings
  • Engaging in policy analysis and administrative advocacy
  • Collaborating with community partners and state officials
  • Drafting and maintaining educational materials
  • Preparing regular reports for grant funders
  • Outreach and training to consumers, advocates, and attorneys


DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM: MEJI advocates for and represents low-income older adults and people with disabilities on issues related to long term care, healthcare, benefits, elder abuse, and individual rights. MEJI houses the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, the MI Health Link and MI Choice, Community Transition Services and PACE Ombudsman Programs, and it engages in litigation and systemic advocacy efforts on behalf of vulnerable adults.

MEJI is part of Michigan Statewide Advocacy Services (MSAS), a non-profit law firm providing free legal services to individuals and families with low-income, Michigans immigrant communities, older adults and adults with disabilities through several statewide programs. Visit meji.org and michigansas.org for more information.


QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must be licensed to practice law in Michigan or qualified to be

admitted by waiver. Applicants must possess excellent communication, collaboration,

analytical, and problem-solving skills and be equipped to balance varied responsibilities. While

we will consider entry level attorneys for one of our two positions, we are also seeking

applicants with demonstrated litigation experience, either in court or administrative hearings. Candidates must be proficient with major software and web services including Word, Excel, G

Suite, and have access to a reliable internet connection. Experience advocating for vulnerable

populations, especially older adults or people with disabilities, is preferred.


BENEFITS: This is a full-time position with a salary starting at $60,000 depending on experience. MAP offers a generous benefits package including life, short- and long-term disability, health, vision, dental and flexible spending accounts. If an applicant does not require health benefits, they have the option to take an annual $1,500 payout in addition to the base salary paid over the course of the year. MAP also has a generous leave policy allowing staff to accrue 3 weeks paid vacation the first year and 15 paid holidays, as well as a 401K retirement plan including employer match for eligible staff after 6 months of employment. MAP is a qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.


TO APPLY: Please complete thisapplication and submit your resume and cover letter. You can also access the application by copying and pasting the following web address into your browser: https://miadvocacy.bamboohr.com/careers/294. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.


The Michigan Statewide Advocacy Services (MSAS) is an equal opportunity employer,committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.