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First Year Associate Attorney Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 ...

Direct Counsel

Corporate Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$365K - $435K/yr

Direct Counsel is seeking a Corporate 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 ...

Direct Counsel

Tax Associate Attorney

Chicago, IL · On-site

$260K - $365K/yr

Associate Attorney - Tax Direct Counsel is seeking a Tax Associate Attorney to join a leading ... Generous paid vacation (four weeks per year), sick time, and 10 paid holidays * Paid parental leave ...

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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.

Associate Attorney (Coverage)

Litchfield Cavo LLP

Chicago, IL • On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

 

Our Chicago office is growing and actively seeking an Insurance Coverage Attorney interested in growing his/her career among our team of staff and attorneys, who value and foster open and honest communication, and act with integrity and professionalism.

Litchfield Cavo offers a competitive compensation plan and an excellent benefits package in a dynamic work environment that provides substantial opportunities for professional development. The salary range of $140K - $170K is commensurate with experience for the 4 or more year attorney.

 

OPPORTUNITY | Associate Attorney

Litchfield Cavo seeks a highly-motivated Associate Attorney with at least five years’ experience in the defense of insurance coverage and/or the insurance industry. Must be licensed to practice in Illinois courts. Additional admission in Indiana is strongly preferred. This is an exceptional opportunity to grow with a dynamic team of lawyers handling files for insurers across the United States for a variety of clients in a forward-thinking firm.

 

SKILLS and ABILITIES

The individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily:

· practice law in the state of Illinois and, preferably, Indiana;

· manage multiple case files successfully in a busy environment;

· demonstrate strong legal research and analytical skills;

· excellent written and verbal communication skills;

· strong attention to detail with superb organization and prioritization skills;

· ability to move from case to case efficiently; and,

· knowledge of both state and federal court procedures.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities include handling a substantial caseload of insurance coverage files. The following are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required to do this job successfully under the direction of a partner:

· draft, prepare and handle coverage opinion letters and coverage position letters on first- and third-party insurance files;

· draft and respond to complex, dispositive motions;

· conduct legal research competently and with proficiency;

· prepare and take depositions and interviews of parties and experts;

· review client documents, draft evaluations and status report correspondence; and,

· assist with and participate in mediations and court appearances;

The firm provides an experienced support staff, current technology, ongoing training, and full-time IT and marketing departments.

Litchfield Cavo LLP supports and encourages workforce diversity. We are an equal opportunity employer and provide equal opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, marital status, sexual orientation, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class in accordance with all applicable laws.

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