ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

First Year Attorney Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Burbank Firm, L.C.

Associate Attorney

Burbank, CA

$150K/yr

Growing three (3) attorney civil and probate litigation firm seeks an associate with 0-3 years of ... Associate will begin a training program with the firm to try lawsuits, which in first year will ...

The Burbank Firm, L.C.

$150K/yr

Growing three (3) attorney civil and probate litigation firm seeks an associate with 0-3 years of ... Associate will begin a training program with the firm to try lawsuits, which in first year will ...

Coastal Wave Recruiting

Family Law Attorney

Irvine, CA · On-site

Uncapped production bonuses * $5,000 year-end holiday bonus (prorated first year) * 10% origination ... Long-tenured attorneys across multiple offices * Weekly Friday breakfasts and monthly firm lunches

Coastal Wave Recruiting

Family Law Attorney

Irvine, CA · On-site

Uncapped production bonuses * $5,000 year-end holiday bonus (prorated first year) * 10% origination ... Long-tenured attorneys across multiple offices * Weekly Friday breakfasts and monthly firm lunches

Coastal Wave Recruiting

Family Law Attorney

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

Uncapped production bonuses * $5,000 year-end holiday bonus (prorated first year) * 10% origination ... Long-tenured attorneys across multiple offices * Weekly Friday breakfasts and monthly firm lunches

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsFirst Year Attorney JobsFirst Year Attorney Jobs in California

First Year Attorney information

See California salary details

$40K

$97K

$189.5K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in California is $97,043.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $118,400.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to First Year Attorney jobs in California? For First Year Attorney jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for First Year Attorney jobs? Cities in California with the most First Year Attorney job openings:
First Year Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,043 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Trial Attorney (10+ yr)

JBA International

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

This Law firm is a distinguished California law firm that practices consumer rights protection and mass tort litigation. They have successfully represented thousands of clients in cases for automotive lemon law, dealer fraud, personal injury and product liability.
Their on-site staff in our Los Angeles office provides services in nearly a dozen languages to serve a diverse array of consumers all across California. The combination of an all-star team, top experts and a wealth of resources has led to record verdicts, successful client outcomes and industry-leading settlements.
Summary
The successful candidate will be a 10+ year attorney, with a successful record of multiple jury verdicts. The successful candidate will demonstrate a passion for serving the public interest by advocating on behalf of our clients. Being hardworking, dedicated, and discovery driven are all key factors in success at our Firm. Strong communications skills and a can-do attitude are expected of all of our personnel.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assume first chair responsibilities for trial efforts.
  • Help to develop trial strategy.
  • Conduct complicated research projects in the prosecution of our cases.
  • Additional consideration given to those with significant experience in Arbitration, Coordinated Proceedings and Multi-District Litigation.
  • Direct interface with specialized outside counsel on behalf of the firm and its clients.
  • Draft moving papers, oppositions involving novel and complicated issues.
  • Appear at hearing for motions and oppositions.
  • Conduct depositions of PMK witnesses, apex employees, mechanical and fraud experts, etc.
  • Seek out and recommend improvements in the client communication efforts.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to implement policies and develop improvements.
  • Resolve issues that may arise in a timely manner.
  • Timely reporting of hours.
  • Assist in other tasks as assigned by the Managing Partner or Partner.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualities and Skills
These are needed to successfully perform job duties and responsibilities.
  • Minimum 10 years prior proven working experience as an Attorney.
  • Minimum J.D., and California Bar license, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Demonstrable strength in client communication.
  • Proficient in MS Office and the use of Attorney timekeeping programs, as well as Client file management.
  • Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills; both written and verbal.
  • Ability in decision-making and problem-solving.
  • Excellent organizational and leaderships skills.
  • Bilingual Spanish is preferred.
  • Operate standard office equipment.
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 20 pounds
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Career Track
Following multiple years practicing as a Trial Attorney for the firm, and depending upon the attorney's goals and performance, a Trial Attorney could pursue a path towards a Partner position.
Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to general office conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.
Company Perks
  • Competitive pay and benefits: medical, vision, dental, 401(k)
  • Extended and comprehensive training
  • Weekly breakfast provided for staff (When Return To Office)
  • Monthly birthday celebrations (When Return To Office)
  • Fun company culture with an emphasis on teamwork

This LLP is committed to providing equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
This LLP will consider for employment qualified Applicants with Criminal Histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring.

Apply