Associate Attorney - LITIGATION Law firm is looking to bring on an experienced (2 to 5 year) associate attorney , lateral hire to assist in litigation. Real estate, banking, collection, construction ...
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Associate Attorney - LITIGATION Law firm is looking to bring on an experienced (2 to 5 year) associate attorney , lateral hire to assist in litigation. Real estate, banking, collection, construction ...
Apply Early
Associate Attorney
Orange, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Orange, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Legal Recruitment Coordinator
$22.50 - $30.25/hr
Serve as the primary point-of-contact for all first-year associate attorneys * Coordinate interview schedules, candidate communications, and offer processes * Support summer associate programs and ...
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Legal Recruitment Coordinator
$22.50 - $30.25/hr
Serve as the primary point-of-contact for all first-year associate attorneys * Coordinate interview schedules, candidate communications, and offer processes * Support summer associate programs and ...
Apply Early
Legal Recruitment Coordinator
$22 - $29.50/hr
Serve as the primary point-of-contact for all first-year associate attorneys * Coordinate interview schedules, candidate communications, and offer processes * Support summer associate programs and ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
Legal Recruitment Coordinator
$22 - $29.50/hr
Serve as the primary point-of-contact for all first-year associate attorneys * Coordinate interview schedules, candidate communications, and offer processes * Support summer associate programs and ...
Apply Early
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Associate Attorney
Las Vegas, NV · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Be Seen First
Associate Attorney
Las Vegas, NV · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Carlsbad, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Carlsbad, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Walnut Creek, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Walnut Creek, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Pasadena, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Pasadena, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Associate Attorney
Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site
$125K - $175K/yr
Collins + Collins (C+C) is looking for an experienced 3+ year Associate Attorney to join our team. Your Role As an Associate Attorney at C+C, you will play a pivotal role in litigation matters. You ...
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Attorney/Lawyer
Indianapolis, IN · Remote
$55 - $70/hr
Comfortable handling first-year associate-level work under the guidance of senior attorneys * Strong writing, research, and organizational skills * Responsive, reliable, and able to work ...
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Attorney/Lawyer
Indianapolis, IN · Remote
$55 - $70/hr
Comfortable handling first-year associate-level work under the guidance of senior attorneys * Strong writing, research, and organizational skills * Responsive, reliable, and able to work ...
Apply Early
Attorney/Lawyer
New York, NY · Remote
$55 - $70/hr
Comfortable handling first-year associate-level work under the guidance of senior attorneys * Strong writing, research, and organizational skills * Responsive, reliable, and able to work ...
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Attorney/Lawyer
New York, NY · Remote
$55 - $70/hr
Comfortable handling first-year associate-level work under the guidance of senior attorneys * Strong writing, research, and organizational skills * Responsive, reliable, and able to work ...
Apply Early
Associate Attorney
Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1
$150K - $180K/yr
Associate Attorney This role presents an opportunity for a legal professional to contribute to a ... Paid time off starting at one week in the first year, increasing to four weeks over time * Accrued ...
Associate Attorney
Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1
$150K - $180K/yr
Associate Attorney This role presents an opportunity for a legal professional to contribute to a ... Paid time off starting at one week in the first year, increasing to four weeks over time * Accrued ...
Associate Attorney(Corporate, Finance, Litigation, Trial, Tax) $235,000-$435,000 (San Francisco)
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$435K/yr
JD Education required Payroll based off year of experience on practice 3rd Year $260,000 4th Year ... first-time securitizations of new asset classes. * Associate Litigation Antitrust * Associate ...
Associate Attorney(Corporate, Finance, Litigation, Trial, Tax) $235,000-$435,000 (San Francisco)
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$435K/yr
JD Education required Payroll based off year of experience on practice 3rd Year $260,000 4th Year ... first-time securitizations of new asset classes. * Associate Litigation Antitrust * Associate ...
Associate Attorney
Chattanooga, TN · On-site
$75K - $100K/yr
We are seeking a 2-6 year associate attorney to join our Chattanooga office. This role is ideal for someone who wants meaningful litigation experience in a stable, collegial environment--without the ...
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Associate Attorney
Chattanooga, TN · On-site
$75K - $100K/yr
We are seeking a 2-6 year associate attorney to join our Chattanooga office. This role is ideal for someone who wants meaningful litigation experience in a stable, collegial environment--without the ...
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Corporate Associate Attorney
$170K - $230K/yr
Corporate Associate Attorney - Public Company Securities Practice (2nd-7th Year) Direct Counsel is currently sourcing 2nd-7th year associate candidates for a public company securities opportunity ...
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Corporate Associate Attorney
$170K - $230K/yr
Corporate Associate Attorney - Public Company Securities Practice (2nd-7th Year) Direct Counsel is currently sourcing 2nd-7th year associate candidates for a public company securities opportunity ...
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Trademark & Copyright Associate Attorney
New York, NY · On-site
$260K - $390K/yr
This is an excellent opportunity for a 3-6 year associate attorney with experience in trademark, copyright, or trade secret litigation to support a busy docket of high-profile, high-stakes district ...
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Trademark & Copyright Associate Attorney
New York, NY · On-site
$260K - $390K/yr
This is an excellent opportunity for a 3-6 year associate attorney with experience in trademark, copyright, or trade secret litigation to support a busy docket of high-profile, high-stakes district ...
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Real Estate Associate Attorney (Mid-Level)
$235K - $365K/yr
This is an excellent opportunity for a 2-5 year associate attorney to join a sophisticated commercial real estate practice handling a broad range and high volume of complex transactions. The group ...
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Real Estate Associate Attorney (Mid-Level)
$235K - $365K/yr
This is an excellent opportunity for a 2-5 year associate attorney to join a sophisticated commercial real estate practice handling a broad range and high volume of complex transactions. The group ...
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Employment Associate Attorney
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$125K - $190K/yr
We are seeking a 1-5 year Associate Attorney to join our Wage & Hour Class Action Department. Our firm differentiates itself through its investment in attorney development and firm culture. We offer:
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Employment Associate Attorney
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$125K - $190K/yr
We are seeking a 1-5 year Associate Attorney to join our Wage & Hour Class Action Department. Our firm differentiates itself through its investment in attorney development and firm culture. We offer:
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Mid-Level Associate
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$310K - $365K/yr
A premier international law firm is seeking a 4th-5th year Mid-Level Associate Attorney to join its Litigation practice group in Los Angeles. Role Description: The successful candidate will manage ...
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Mid-Level Associate
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$310K - $365K/yr
A premier international law firm is seeking a 4th-5th year Mid-Level Associate Attorney to join its Litigation practice group in Los Angeles. Role Description: The successful candidate will manage ...
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ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
Dallas, TX · On-site +1
$100K - $120K/yr
Associate Attorney - Dallas/Fort Worth Area Clausen Miller P.C. is seeking a qualified Litigation ... Will consider a first-year attorney with prior civil litigation exposure or relevant experience
ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY
Dallas, TX · On-site +1
$100K - $120K/yr
Associate Attorney - Dallas/Fort Worth Area Clausen Miller P.C. is seeking a qualified Litigation ... Will consider a first-year attorney with prior civil litigation exposure or relevant experience
First Year Associate Lawyer information
See salary details
$46K - $57.5K
2% of jobs
$57.5K - $69K
6% of jobs
$80K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$69K - $80.5K
17% of jobs
$80.5K - $92K
15% of jobs
The median wage is $99K / yr.
$92K - $103.5K
15% of jobs
$103.5K - $115K
11% of jobs
$123.9K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$115K - $126.5K
11% of jobs
$126.5K - $138K
9% of jobs
$138K - $149.5K
6% of jobs
$149.5K - $161K
5% of jobs
$161K - $172.5K
2% of jobs
$46K
$108.2K
$172.5K
How much do first year associate lawyer jobs pay per year?
As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year associate lawyer in the United States is $108,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $130,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between First Year Associate Lawyer vs Paralegal?
| Aspect | First Year Associate Lawyer | Paralegal |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Juris Doctor (JD), Bar Admission | Associate's degree or paralegal certificate |
| Work Environment | Law firms, corporate legal departments, courts | Law firms, legal departments, courts |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Legal industry, law firms, corporate legal teams | Legal support roles, law firms, legal departments |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | No |
The main difference between a First Year Associate Lawyer and a Paralegal lies in their credentials and responsibilities. A First Year Associate Lawyer has a JD degree, is licensed to practice law, and handles legal research, drafting, and client interactions. A Paralegal supports lawyers by conducting research, preparing documents, and managing case files but is not licensed to practice law. While both roles work within legal environments, the associate lawyer has more advanced responsibilities and legal authority.
What are First Year Associate Lawyers?
First Year Associate Lawyers are newly qualified attorneys who have recently graduated from law school and passed the bar exam. They typically work in law firms under the supervision of more experienced lawyers, assisting with legal research, drafting documents, and supporting case preparation. Their primary role is to learn the practical aspects of the legal profession, gain experience in different areas of law, and develop their legal skills. The first year is often demanding as associates adapt to the fast-paced environment and high expectations of legal practice.
What are some of the common challenges faced by First Year Associate Lawyers, and how can they effectively overcome them?
First Year Associate Lawyers often encounter challenges such as managing a steep learning curve, balancing multiple assignments with tight deadlines, and adapting to the expectations of senior attorneys. To overcome these, it's helpful to proactively communicate with supervisors, seek feedback, and prioritize tasks effectively. Building strong organizational skills and taking initiative to learn from more experienced colleagues can also ease the transition into practice. Engaging in firm-sponsored training and networking with peers further supports professional growth and confidence in the role.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Year Associate Lawyer, and why are they important?
To thrive as a First Year Associate Lawyer, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and teamwork abilities help you stand out in a demanding law firm environment. These skills enable new associates to deliver high-quality work, manage multiple priorities, and contribute effectively to client matters and firm success.
More about First Year Associate Lawyer jobs
What cities are hiring for First Year Associate Lawyer jobs? Cities with the most First Year Associate Lawyer job openings:
What states have the most First Year Associate Lawyer jobs? States with the most job openings for First Year Associate Lawyer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching First Year Associate Lawyer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Year Associate Lawyer jobs are:
Job description
Wegman Partners is currently sourcing for the following ATTORNEY position for a prominent ABILENE, TEXAS law firm.
Associate Attorney - LITIGATION
Law firm is looking to bring on an experienced (2 to 5 year) associate attorney, lateral hire to assist in litigation. Real estate, banking, collection, construction, probate and employment law are among the areas that generate our litigation work. The firm has large and small clients from decades of service which have litigation needs from time to time. Law firm is a collaborative and supportive place to work.