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First Year Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Egan Nelson LLP

$340K/yr

We are a "remote first" law firm that combines more conventional offices with a distributed team of ... A 7th year attorney earns $300-340k at 1600-1800 billed hours, which is Partner track. Our rates ...

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First Year Attorney information

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$40.5K

$98.3K

$192K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year attorney in the United States is $98,330.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $120,000.00 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.

More about First Year Attorney jobs
What cities are hiring for First Year Attorney jobs? Cities with the most First Year Attorney job openings:
What states have the most First Year Attorney jobs? States with the most job openings for First Year Attorney jobs include:
What job categories do people searching First Year Attorney jobs look for? The top searched job categories for First Year Attorney jobs are:
First Year Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 78% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,330 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

First Year Associate (2026 Graduate) - Austin

Segal McCambridge

Austin, TX • On-site

$115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Segal McCambridge, a national litigation firm, is accepting resumes for First-Year Associate Attorneys to join our Austin office working with our Insurance Litigation team. 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 work on an active litigation docket specializing in the defense of first-party lawsuits brought against large national insurance carriers. Associates work closely with experienced trial attorneys on sophisticated, high-exposure cases. 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 first-party insurance 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 Texas
• 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 Austin office gain immediate exposure to first-party insurance 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:
Salary - $115,000 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.

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