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First Year Attorney Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Michigan Advocacy Program

Staff Attorney

Lansing, MI · On-site

$60K/yr

POSITION: The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking two full-time attorneys with a ... MSAS also has a generous leave policy allowing staff to accrue 3 weeks paid vacation the first year ...

Michigan Advocacy Program

Staff Attorney

Lansing, MI · On-site

$60K/yr

The Michigan Elder Justice Initiative (MEJI) is seeking two full-time attorneys with a demonstrated ... MSAS also has a generous leave policy allowing staff to accrue 3 weeks paid vacation the first year ...

Miadvocacy

Staff Attorney (Monroe)

Monroe, MI · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

The staff attorney will provide a range of direct legal representation, advocacy, and impact work ... Leave policy allowing 3 weeks paid vacation the first year and 15 paid holidays. * 401(k) ...

Hutchinson Cannatella

Be Seen First

Associate Attorney

Detroit, MI · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Requirements: Licensed and in good standing with the State Bar of Michigan, at least 1 year ... Preferred : insurance defense and first-party PIP. Benefits: Competitive salary commensurate with ...

PlastiPak

Corporate Attorney

Plymouth, MI · On-site

... seeking an experienced attorney for an in-house counsel position within our corporate Legal ... Paid Time Off - 80 hours within 1st year & subsequent increases * Paid Company Holidays * Dependent ...

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All JobsFirst Year Attorney JobsFirst Year Attorney Jobs in Michigan

First Year Attorney information

See Michigan salary details

$35.3K

$85.7K

$167.3K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in Michigan is $85,704.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,100.00 and $104,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

First Year Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,704 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

First Year Associate (2026 Graduate) - Detroit

Segal McCambridge

Detroit, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Work closely with partners and senior attorneys on active insurance defense matters.

  • Draft pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and legal correspondence.

  • Conduct legal research and analysis on substantive legal issues.

Job description

Segal McCambridge, a national litigation firm, is accepting resumes for First-Year Associate Attorneys to join our Detroit (Southfield) office. This role is open to recent or 2026 law school graduates who will begin after completion of the bar exam and are eager to launch their legal careers with meaningful, hands-on litigation experience from day one.

The associate will focus on 1st and 3rd party insurance defense matters, working closely with experienced trial attorneys on sophisticated, high-exposure cases. This role also offers the opportunity and long-term goal of expanding into diversified practice areas as the associate develops professionally within the firm.

This is an exceptional opportunity to gain early litigation and case management experience while building a strong foundation in litigation strategy, advocacy, and client service.

What You'll Do:
Work closely with partners and senior attorneys on active insurance defense matters
Draft pleadings, motions, discovery responses, and legal correspondence
Conduct legal research and analysis on substantive legal issues
Assist with case strategy, fact investigation, and overall case management
Prepare for and attend depositions, hearings, mediations, and court appearances
Collaborate with clients, colleagues, experts, and support staff in a team-oriented environment
Participate in firm-sponsored training and mentorship programs designed specifically for junior associates
Gain exposure to additional litigation practice areas over time as part of the firm's commitment to professional development and diversified experience

What We're Looking For:
J.D. from an accredited law school
Bar admission pending or anticipated in Michigan
Strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills
A proactive mindset and eagerness to learn through hands-on experience
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Professionalism, accountability, and attention to detail
Interest in litigation, including toxic tort and general liability defense

Why Join Segal McCambridge?

At Segal McCambridge, first-year associates are not sidelined. You'll receive structured training, close mentorship, and real responsibility from the outset. Our trial-focused culture emphasizes learning by doing, with partners who are invested in your development and long-term growth.

Associates in the Detroit office gain immediate exposure to insurance defense litigation while also having opportunities to work across a broader range of practice areas as their careers evolve. We are committed to helping associates develop into well-rounded litigators with meaningful client interaction and practical courtroom experience early in their careers.

Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive salary with potential for bonus and business origination credit
Bar preparation reimbursement
Comprehensive benefits package, including:
401(k) with firm match
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Health savings and flexible spending accounts
Paid time off and parental leave
Life insurance
Professional development and CLE support
Employee assistance program
Referral bonuses

About Segal McCambridge:

Founded in 1986, Segal McCambridge has grown from a four-attorney firm in Chicago into a national litigation firm with offices in more than 15 cities. We represent a diverse client base, including Fortune 500 companies, in complex litigation matters such as asbestos, product liability, class action, environmental, professional liability, cyber risk, and other high-exposure disputes.