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First Year Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Clausen Miller P.C.

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Dallas, TX · On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

Will consider a first-year attorney with prior civil litigation exposure or relevant experience * Excellent oral and written communication skills * Strong attention to detail * Self-starter with the ...

Clausen Miller P.C.

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Dallas, TX · Remote

Will consider a first-year attorney with prior civil litigation exposure or relevant experience * Excellent oral and written communication skills * Strong attention to detail * Self-starter with the ...

MANUKYAN LAW FIRM

Associate Attorney

Glendale, CA · On-site

We are looking to hire an associate attorney, preferably a first or second year attorney, who has experience with answering discovery. We practice Plaintiff's side employment law. Responsibilities ...

JBA International

Trial Attorney

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

Plaintiffs Practice Seeking 5+ year attorney with personal injury trial experience * Must have ... Medical and Vacation starting after 90 days Interview Process: 1st interview= phone/zoom 2nd ...

MANUKYAN LAW FIRM

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Associate Attorney- Employment Law

Glendale, CA · On-site

$100K - $175K/yr

We are looking to hire an associate attorney, preferably a first or second year attorney, who has experience with answering discovery. We practice Plaintiff's side employment law. Responsibilities ...

Direct Counsel

First Year Associate Attorney

Glendale, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

A positive attitude and interest in joining a highly successful firm and collegial group of 25+ attorneys dedicated to helping those who have experienced injustice in the workplace across California.

Direct Counsel

First Year Associate Attorney

Glendale, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

A positive attitude and interest in joining a highly successful firm and collegial group of 25+ attorneys dedicated to helping those who have experienced injustice in the workplace across California.

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First Year Attorney information

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$40.5K

$98.3K

$192K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in the United States is $98,330.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by first year attorneys, and how can they be addressed?

First year attorneys often face challenges related to managing a steep learning curve, balancing heavy workloads, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of a law firm or legal department. It's common to feel overwhelmed by billable hour requirements and the expectation to deliver high-quality work while learning firm procedures. Building strong relationships with mentors and colleagues, seeking regular feedback, and taking proactive steps to improve time management skills can help ease the transition. Many firms also offer training programs and support networks to assist new attorneys in developing their legal and professional skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Year Attorney, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Year Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and analytical reasoning. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, document management systems, and e-discovery tools is typically required. Excellent communication, organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage deadlines are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate work, meeting client and firm expectations, and building a successful legal career from the outset.

What is a first year attorney?

A first year attorney is a lawyer who has recently graduated from law school and has just begun practicing law, typically in their first year at a law firm or legal organization. These attorneys are often referred to as 'associates' and usually focus on learning the foundational aspects of legal practice, performing research, drafting documents, and assisting more senior lawyers. The first year is considered a training period where new attorneys gain practical experience, develop professional skills, and begin to build their legal careers.

What is the difference between First Year Attorney vs Law Clerk?

AspectFirst Year AttorneyLaw Clerk
Required CredentialsJ.D. degree, bar admissionJ.D. degree, often bar admission not required
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesCourts, law firms, government offices
Employer & Industry UsageLegal industry, post-law schoolJudicial and legal institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

First Year Attorneys and Law Clerks often share similar educational backgrounds, but First Year Attorneys are typically recent law school graduates working as entry-level lawyers, while Law Clerks usually assist judges or attorneys with research and drafting. Both roles require a J.D. degree, but First Year Attorneys are more involved in client representation and legal practice, whereas Law Clerks focus on research and case preparation. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right position based on their career goals and experience.

More about First Year Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for First Year Attorney jobs? Cities with the most First Year Attorney job openings:
What states have the most First Year Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for First Year Attorney jobs include:
What job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs are:
First Year Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 78% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,330 per year, or $47.3 per hour.
ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY

Clausen Miller P.C.

Dallas, TX • On-site, Remote

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Associate Attorney - Dallas/Fort Worth Area
Clausen Miller P.C. is seeking a qualified Litigation Associate Attorney for its growing first party property, professional liability, and general casualty defense practice. This role offers a unique opportunity to assist in establishing and expanding the firm's presence in the Dallas/Fort Worth market while working closely with a collaborative national team.
Founded over 90 years ago, Clausen Miller is a national and international law firm with a long-standing reputation for excellence in insurance defense and complex litigation. A Texas license is required. Competitive salary range $100K - $120K and comprehensive benefits package provided. The position is fully remote with potential hybrid work in the future.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Active member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas
  • 1-3 years of litigation experience preferred
  • Will consider a first-year attorney with prior civil litigation exposure or relevant experience
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Self-starter with the ability to work independently
Responsibilities:
With the supervision of a partner, the candidate will handle the legal process from investigation through trial. Tasks include but are not limited to:
  • Regular communication with clients and relationship development
  • Advising clients on case status, arbitrations, and proceedings
  • Preparing and responding to discovery
  • Drafting legal analysis memoranda, briefs, and reports
  • Conducting and defending depositions
  • Preparing and responding to motions and engaging in motion practice
  • Appearing before courts and at hearings

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