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First Year Associate Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL

Downey & Lenkov LLC

Be Seen First

Litigation Attorney (Specialty Lines Defense)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Lateral Partner/Senior Associate Attorney - Specialty Lines Defense We are seeking a lateral partner or 5-7 year associate attorney based in Northwest Indiana or Illinois with substantial experience ...

Jobot

REMOTE - Labor Attorney

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$150K - $215K/yr

Job Details ----- We are looking to hire a 3 to 5 year associate attorney with experience handling matters under the National Labor Relations Act! Job Details: Our premier law firm is currently ...

Meltzer Hellrung LLC

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

Retirement: 401(k) with 100% match on the first 3%, and 50% match on the next 2%. Low rates on ... Sick Days Each Calendar Year * Attorneys have bar license, CLE costs, cell phone and service ...

Meltzer Hellrung LLC

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL

$80K - $110K/yr

Retirement: 401(k) with 100% match on the first 3%, and 50% match on the next 2%. Low rates on ... Sick Days Each Calendar Year * Attorneys have bar license, CLE costs, cell phone and service ...

Direct Counsel

Finance Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$390K - $435K/yr

Direct Counsel is seeking a Finance Associate Attorney to join a highly respected Am Law firm ... The role may also be eligible for a discretionary year-end bonus. Additional Information The firm ...

Heplerbroom Llc

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Associate attorney eligible total compensation ranges from $110,000 to $140,000 annually ... Attractive base salary reviewed annually, structured associate bonus program, and year-end bonus ...

Sterling Lawyers

Associate Attorney

Naperville, IL · On-site

Associate Attorney (Naperville) "At Sterling Lawyers, it's not like anyone is a lone wolf. We ... Health, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance, which are effective on the first day of the month ...

Meltzer Hellrung LLC

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

Retirement: 401(k) with 100% match on the first 3%, and 50% match on the next 2%. Low rates on ... Sick Days Each Calendar Year * Attorneys have bar license, CLE costs, cell phone and service ...

Heplerbroom Llc

Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Associate attorney eligible total compensation ranges from $120,000 to $140,000 annually ... Attractive base salary reviewed annually, structured associate bonus program, and year-end bonus ...

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All JobsFirst Year Associate Attorney JobsFirst Year Associate Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL

First Year Associate Attorney information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.4K

$111.4K

$177.7K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year associate attorney in Chicago, IL is $111,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $133,900.00 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 near Chicago, IL are hiring for First Year Associate Attorney jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,420 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

First Year Associate (2026 Graduate) - Chicago

Segal McCambridge

Chicago, IL

$100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Segal McCambridge, a national litigation firm, is accepting resumes for First-Year Associate Attorneys to join our Chicago 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:
Work closely with partners and senior attorneys on active toxic tort and 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 Illinois
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 Chicago 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 - $100,000 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.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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