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First Year Associate Attorney Jobs in Columbia, IL

Associate Attorney

Edwardsville, 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 ...

Associate Attorney

Edwardsville, 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 ...

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Associate Attorney

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

Associate Attorney Pay: $80,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year Job Type: Full-time Work Location: In person About Combs Waterkotte Combs Waterkotte is a dedicated criminal defense law firm providing ...

Associate Attorney

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

Associate Attorney Pay: $80,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year Job Type: Full-time Work Location: In person About Combs Waterkotte Combs Waterkotte is a dedicated criminal defense law firm providing ...

Associate Attorney

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$135K - $175K/yr

The ideal candidate may be an Attorney with a book of business, a senior associate, or an attorney ... Retirement savings plan with employer match (100% of the first 3% of salary deferral, plus 50% of ...

... Associate Attorney with at least 3 years of relevant experience to join our St. Louis, MO office ... and year-end bonus recognizing non-billable efforts such as pro bono work and professional ...

... Associate Attorney with at least 3 years of relevant experience to join our St. Louis, MO office ... and year-end bonus recognizing non-billable efforts such as pro bono work and professional ...

Associate Attorney

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

... Associate Attorneys in our St. Louis office to handle local and national accounts. Admission to ... the first 3% of salary deferral, plus 50% of the next 2%) Paid time off (PTO) Parental leave ...

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Showing results 1-20

First Year Associate Attorney information

See Columbia, IL salary details

$45K

$105.8K

$168.8K

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 Columbia, IL is $105,809.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $127,200.00 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 Columbia, IL are hiring for First Year Associate Attorney jobs?

Cities near Columbia, IL with the most First Year Associate Attorney job openings:

Infographic showing various First Year Associate Attorney job openings in Columbia, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,809 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Associate Attorney

Heplerbroom Llc

Edwardsville, IL • On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

HeplerBroom LLC, a large defense firm, is currently seeking a licensed Associate Attorney with 2+ years of experience to join our Toxic Tort and Products Liability Litigation team. The position is located in our Edwardsville office, but hybrid work options available.


Why HeplerBroom?

  • Competitive Compensation: Competitive Compensation: Associate attorney eligible total compensation ranges from $110,000 to $140,000 annually, commensurate with experience, with the potential for annual performance-based raises and discretionary bonuses. Attractive base salary reviewed annually, structured associate bonus program, and year-end bonus recognizing non-billable efforts such as pro bono work and professional development.
  • Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid work options to support work-life balance.
  • Professional Development: Access to in-house CLE programs, legal association membership support, structured mentor program, and community service involvement.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple health benefit options, generous 401K matching, and profit-sharing programs.
  • Dynamic Work Environment: Join a team of highly qualified and dedicated professionals committed to delivering the highest level of client service and strategic legal solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conducting thorough research, analysis, and interpretation of legal sources such as statutes, regulations, ordinances, court decisions, and legal opinions.
  • Independently managing a litigation caseload from inception to resolution.
  • Monitoring case files to ensure compliance with deadlines and investigating facts and legal matters to determine causes of action.
  • Assisting with document review and analysis.
  • Conducting depositions and attending court hearings in various counties and courthouses.

This position requires:

  • Good standing with the Illinois bar; dual licensure in Missouri is preferred.
  • Strong writing, research, and analytical skills.
  • Deposition experience, with a preference for experience in Toxic Tort cases.

HeplerBroom is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or any basis prohibited by state or federal law.