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First Year Attorney Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

AVE Staffing

Medical Malpractice Attorney

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Medical Malpractice Defense Attorney | Elite Defense Firm Location: Raleigh, NC Job Type ... family-first" culture and a 30-year legacy of excellence in North Carolina's legal community.

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All JobsFirst Year Attorney JobsFirst Year Attorney Jobs in Raleigh, NC

First Year Attorney information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$39.4K

$95.6K

$186.6K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in Raleigh, NC is $95,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,700.00 and $116,600.00 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 Raleigh, NC? For First Year Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for First Year Attorney jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most First Year Attorney job openings:
First Year Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,580 per year, or $46 per hour.

Attorney- Civil Litigation

Solid Rock Recruiting LLC

Durham, NC

$170K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Looking to level up your career with a firm that values excellence, collaboration, and growth? A well-regarded Am 200 law firm is seeking a mid-level associate to join its Insurance Coverage Litigation Practice in its Raleigh, NC office. This role offers the opportunity to represent insurers in complex coverage disputes across all lines of 1st & 3rd-party coverage.

Position Overview

As a litigation-focused associate, you will be responsible for managing cases from start to finish, including:

  • Filing and defending lawsuits in state and federal courts
  • Attending and conducting depositions, mediations, hearings, and trials
  • Drafting and arguing motions for summary judgment and other dispositive motions
  • Advising clients on strategy and risk throughout litigation
  • Working closely with a collaborative team to deliver exceptional results for clients

Qualifications

  • 2–5 years of insurance coverage litigation experience in North Carolina
  • Proven litigation skills, including case management, motion practice, and courtroom advocacy
  • Experience in federal and state courts
  • Background in negotiation and mediations
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment

Why Join

  • Competitive compensation and benefits (1st year starts at $160k)
  • Formal mentoring and professional development opportunities
  • A supportive, team-oriented culture with regular social events

This is an excellent opportunity for a driven attorney who enjoys litigation and wants to deepen their expertise in insurance coverage law. If you’re looking for meaningful courtroom experience, the chance to work directly with respected clients, and a supportive environment that values professional growth, we encourage you to apply.

For more information, Contact Leroy (JR) LaPlante, JD at 605.223.0649

Solid Rock is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable laws.