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First Year Attorney Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

PacifiCorp

Sr Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site

$155K - $213K/yr

... commercial attorney. • Demonstrated in-depth experience and knowledge with legal and/or ... year for new hires. In addition, PacifiCorp matches 100% of the first 6% you contribute. • Life ...

PacifiCorp

Sr Attorney

Portland, OR · On-site

$155K - $213K/yr

... commercial attorney. • Demonstrated in-depth experience and knowledge with legal and/or ... year for new hires. In addition, PacifiCorp matches 100% of the first 6% you contribute. • Life ...

Latham & Watkins LLP

OGC Assistant - Compliance

Gresham, OR · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Responding to questions from lawyers and support team members in assigned offices regarding KYC ... At least 11 paid holidays per year, and a PTO program that accrues 23 days during the first year of ...

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All JobsFirst Year Attorney JobsFirst Year Attorney Jobs in Portland, OR

First Year Attorney information

See Portland, OR salary details

$43K

$104.3K

$203.6K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in Portland, OR is $104,280.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $127,300.00 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 Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs in Portland, OR are:

First Year Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,280 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Legal Assistant - Case Manager

The Advocates - PNW

Portland, OR • On-site

$23 - $26/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Who We Are 

The Advocates are a growing personal injury law firm with branches across the United States. We are dedicated to representing victims of accidents with care and respect. Our team genuinely cares about and has empathy for the people who seek our help, and we are driven to get them the best results possible.  

The PNW branch is looking for a driven and client-focused Case Manager to be a part of our Portland, OR team. You would become a vital part of a close-knit group of attorneys, legal assistants, paralegals, and staff who all share a profound dedication to supporting our clients throughout their recovery journeys. 

Learn more about us at our website! https://www.advocateslaw.com/ 

Our Ideal Candidate 

We are looking for a Legal Assistant to join our growing team. The position will have ownership over cases, reaching out to coordinate with clients, solving problems with insurance companies and medical providers, and organizing records. They will work hand-in-hand with an attorney to provide excellent service to people who have been hurt. 

A great fit would be someone people-oriented who has a history of working hard for clients, appreciates the connection between details and client success, and is emotionally and intellectually sharp.  

Responsibilities

  • Feel a sense of responsibility for the cases on your docket
  • Communicate with clients throughout the course of their treatment
  • Collaborate with team, including other assistants and attorneys to ensure top notch client representation
  • Are driven to win and take pride in your work
  • Provide exceptional customer service to both external and internal clients with a professional, courteous manner.
  • Perform administrative duties such as gathering, recording, and filing documentation

Experience and Professional Background 

  • Computer literacy (required)
  • High School Diploma or GED (required)
  • Associate's Degree (preferred)
  • 1+ years Office Work experience (preferred)
  • 1+ years of Personal Injury experience (preferred) 

 Skills

  • Solving complex problems on the phone
  • Persistent and dedicated in case management
  • Able to develop strong rapport with clients and providers 
  • Eager to learn complex tasks

Compensation

  • $23.00 - $26.00/hr
  • Health, Dental, and Vision care up to 100% employer paid (Buy up options available)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 3 Weeks PTO in your first year, Uncapped PTO in year 4
  • 401(k) matching up to 4% (after 1 year)
  • 50% Paid transit card

Apply