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First Year Attorney Jobs in Maine (NOW HIRING)

... 20/year* Salary competitive and based upon qualifications *Pursuant to 5 MRS 196, the salary for ... Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA York County - Doe, J. The DAO is not responsible ...

Asst District Attorney

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$35K - $69K/yr

... year* Salary competitive and based upon qualifications *Pursuant to 5 MRS § 196, the salary for ... Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA York County - Doe, J. The DAO is not responsible ...

Asst District Attorney

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$35K - $69K/yr

... year* Salary competitive and based upon qualifications *Pursuant to 5 MRS § 196, the salary for ... Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA York County - Doe, J. The DAO is not responsible ...

Asst District Attorney

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$35K - $69K/yr

... 20/year* Salary competitive and based upon qualifications *Pursuant to 5 MRS 196, the salary for ... Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA York County - Doe, J. The DAO is not responsible ...

Asst District Attorney

Bangor, ME · On-site

$71K - $139K/yr

... 110.40/year* (Salary competitive and based upon qualifications) *Pursuant to 5 MRS § 196, the ... Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA, District 5 - Doe, J. The DAO is not responsible ...

... year* (Salary competitive and based upon qualifications) *Pursuant to 5 MRS 196, the salary for ... Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA, District 5 - Doe, J. The DAO is not responsible ...

Salary: $71,843.20 - $139,110.40/year (Salary competitive and based upon qualifications)* *Pursuant ... Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA Washington County - Doe, J. The DAO is not ...

Until Filled Class Code: 0206 Grade: 1 Salary: $71,843.20 - $139,110.40/year (Salary competitive ... Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA District 6 - Doe, J. The DAO is not responsible ...

If more than 2 pages are submitted, only the first 2 pages will be reviewed to determine your ... One year of full-time undergraduate study is defined as 30 semester or 45 quarter hours; OR ...

Front Office Associate

Portland, ME · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

We are challenging the status quo by shining light on radiology and making it a critical first step ... One (1) year of Customer Service experience * Proficient in using computer systems and typing

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First Year Attorney information

See Maine salary details

$39.2K

$95.2K

$185.9K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in Maine is $95,203.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,400.00 and $116,200.00 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 Maine?

For First Year Attorney jobs in Maine, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs in Maine look for?

The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs in Maine are:

Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in Maine as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,203 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Asst District Attorney

Maine

Biddeford, ME

$35K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

If you are a current State of Maine employee, you must complete your application through the internal application process (Find Jobs Report). Please apply using your PRISM account. If you are on Seasonal Leave and do not have access to PRISM, contact your local Human Resources representative for application information.

Assistant District Attorney - PART TIME

Prosecutorial District 1, York County

***Please DO NOT APPLY ONLINE - See Applications Instructions below ***

Opening Date: December 22, 2025

Closing Date: Until Filed

Class Code: 0206

Position Number: 200024789

Grade: 1

Salary: $35,921.60 - $69,555.20/year*

Salary competitive and based upon qualifications

*Pursuant to 5 MRS 196, the salary for this position has been set by the Office of the Attorney General

The District Attorney's Office is seeking a part time Assistant District Attorney.

This Assistant District Attorney will be primarily responsible for adult criminal cases and civil violations in the Unified Criminal Court in York County, as well as appellate cases before the Law Court. This position requires travel and applicants must have reliable means of transportation.

This Assistant District Attorney will be primarily responsible for criminal prosecutions in the Unified Criminal Court in York County, as well as appellate cases before the Law Court. Candidates should have a strong desire for a career in litigation. Trial experience and developed trial skills a plus. High ethical standards, sound judgment, strong communication and inter-personal skills, and good organizational/time management skills are essential. Candidates must be members of the Maine Bar and in good standing. Salary and benefits are as established by the wage scale.

York County District Attorney

MINIMUM QUALIFICATONS

Applicants must be members of the Maine Bar in good standing, have an eye for legal detail, be interested in complex state and federal regulations, have strong legal advocacy and writing skills, and have a demonstrated ability to function effectively as part of a team.

Application Instructions - Please DO NOT APPLY ONLINE

If you are interested in applying for this position, prepare a cover letter highlighting your experience and qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the position and the knowledge, skills and abilities required.

Include resume, writing sample, three references (to include one work-related reference), and a copy of your Maine Board of Overseers of the Bar certification.

Submit all required documentation to the Office of the District Attorney, 208 Graham Street, Biddeford Maine or 04005 or at the following email address: kmslattery@yorkcountymaine.gov. Please use the following format for email subject line: Position - Last Name, First Initial. Example: ADA York County - Doe, J.

The DAO is not responsible for late receipt of applications due to mail service, faxing malfunctions or electronic transmission malfunctions.

Job offer to new hire is conditional upon verification of credentials, criminal records, and driver's license check, and professional license requirements if applicable.

Please direct all questions to District Attorney Kathryn Slattery via email or by calling 207-324-8001.

BENEFITS

Maine state employees embody our state motto - "Dirigo" or "I lead" - as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:

  • Work-Life Balance- Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using13 paid holidays,12 days of sick leave, and3+ weeks of vacation leave.Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service. Overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
  • Health Insurance Coverage - The State of Maine pays85%-95%of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $12,514.32 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find thepremium costsfor you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
  • Health Insurance Premium Credit - Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information aboutprogram requirements.
  • Dental Insurance - The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($350.40 annual value).
  • Retirement Plan - The State of Maine contributes13.29%of payto the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), on behalf of the employee.
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement - Improve overall health with regular exercise and receive up to $40 per month to offset this expense.
  • Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts - Set aside money pre-tax to help pay for out-of-pocket health care expenses and/or daycare expenses.
  • Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness - The State of Maine is a qualified employer for this federal program. For more information, visit theFederal Student Aid office.
  • Income Driven Repayment Plans - Income-driven repayment (IDR) plans including the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan are available for employees and can be used in conjunction with the Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid office.
  • John R. Justice (JRJ) Formula Grant Program- The State of Maine is a recipient of the JRJ Grant Program that provides partial loan repayment directly to the employee's loan service provider.
  • Living Resources Program- Navigate challenging work and life situations with our employee assistance program.
  • Parental leave - One of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child-including fathers and adoptive parents-receivesix weeks of fully paid parental leave. Additionally, unpaid leave may also be available under theFamily and Medical Leave Act.
  • Voluntary Deferred Compensation - Save additional pre-tax funds for retirement in aMaineSaves457(b) account through payroll deductions.
  • Learn about additional wellness benefitsfor State employees from theOffice of Employee Health and Wellness.

The District Attorney's Office, Maine State Government and the Office of the Attorney General are Equal Opportunity employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request

.

If you are unable to complete the online application, please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening you are interested in applying for. They will work with you for an alternative method of submitting.