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First Year Attorney Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Kimbrough Family Law

Managing Attorney

Austin, TX · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Up to $30,000 per year · Discretionary Bonus Eligibility · Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance ... At Kimbrough Legal, our core principle is simple: the client comes first. We are committed to ...

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

Lubbock, TX · On-site +1

$100K - $145K/yr

... the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4-5% * Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan (full-time attorneys after one year with the firm) $100-$200/month

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

San Antonio, TX · On-site +1

$100K - $145K/yr

... the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4-5% * Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan (full-time attorneys after one year with the firm) $100-$200/month

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$100K - $145K/yr

... the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4-5% * Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan (full-time attorneys after one year with the firm) $100-$200/month

Jobot

Trial Attorney

Dallas, TX

$180K - $200K/yr

Salary: $180,000 - $210,000 per year A bit about us: ----- We are a large contingency based law ... Minimum of 15-20 first-chair or substantial trial experiences to verdict. * Demonstrated success in ...

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

Lubbock, TX · On-site +1

$100K - $145K/yr

... the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4-5% * Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan (full-time attorneys after one year with the firm) $100-$200/month

Tyson & Mendes LLP

Associate Attorney

San Antonio, TX · On-site +1

$100K - $145K/yr

... the first 3% contributed and a 50% match on the following 4-5% * Student loan repayment assistance or 529 college savings plan (full-time attorneys after one year with the firm) $100-$200/month

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsFirst Year Attorney JobsFirst Year Attorney Jobs in Texas

First Year Attorney information

See Texas salary details

$37.7K

$91.6K

$178.9K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in Texas is $91,610.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,000.00 and $111,800.00 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 Texas? For First Year Attorney jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for First Year Attorney jobs? Cities in Texas with the most First Year Attorney job openings:
First Year Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,610 per year, or $44 per hour.

Bryan TX Trial Attorney

Dunham & Jones, Attorneys at Law PC

Bryan, TX • On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Dunham & Jones is a nationwide criminal defense firm built on purpose, service, and strong relationships. We’re hiring a full-time Associate Attorney to join our Bryan office, where you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference in clients’ lives. Compensation ranges from $90,000–$125,000 per year, based on experience and education. At Dunham & Jones, we don’t just support your career—we’ll invest in your future.



Benefits of the Associate Attorney:

· 401(k) with a very generous employer match (after 90 days, if eligible)

· Comprehensive medical, dental, vision & life insurance

· Paid vacation and sick time

· Texas State Bar dues & relevant CLEs fully covered


Associate Attorney’s Role/Responsibilities: (Included but not limited to)

· Manage a diverse caseload with skill and precision

· Provide proactive, compassionate client service

· Build strong legal strategies to secure the best outcomes

· Advocate fiercely in and out of court


*Newly Licensed Attorneys are encouraged to apply


Requirements of the Associate Attorney:

· Licensed to practice in Texas

· Texas Criminal experience preferred

· Passion for criminal defense and protecting clients’ rights

· Strong strategist with sharp analytical and negotiation skills

· Compassionate communicator with a client-first mindset


About Us:

Dunham & Jones has been recognized by Time and Newsweek as leading attorneys, voted Best Law Firm by the Daily Texan, and ranked among the nation’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers and 10 Best in Client Satisfaction. These honors reflect our unwavering commitment to criminal defense, a client-focused approach, and a collaborative team environment where meaningful work creates real impact.


Salary or pay scale will depend on a variety of factors including relevant experience and education. Any range seen within the job posting is automatically populated and does not reflect the potential range for this position.


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