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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 ...

Zanes Law LLC

Prelitigation Attorney

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$400K/yr

No attorney on our team earns less than $300,000 in total compensation (salary + bonus) - including first-year attorneys, with one narrow exception in year one. * After year one, t ypical total ...

Lydecker LLP

Associate Attorney

Houston, TX · On-site

We are also open to first year attorneys! Newly Texas barred attorneys are welcomed to apply! This is a hybrid position, located in our Houston or Dallas, TX office. The associate should be admitted ...

Lydecker LLP

Associate Attorney

Houston, TX · Hybrid

We are also open to first year attorneys! Newly Texas barred attorneys are welcomed to apply! This is a hybrid position, located in our Houston or Dallas, TX office. The associate should be admitted ...

Lydecker LLP

Associate Attorney

Dallas, TX · Hybrid

We are also open to first year attorneys! Newly Texas barred attorneys are welcomed to apply! This is a hybrid position, located in our Houston or Dallas, TX office. The associate should be admitted ...

Maverick Law Group

Be Seen First

Associate Attorney

Bismarck, ND · On-site

$65K - $135K/yr

A first-year associate is an entry level attorney who typically specializes in one area of law, here at the Maverick Law Group 85% of our legal revenue stream is in Business and Estate Planning ...

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First Year Attorney information

See salary details

$40.5K

$98.3K

$192K

How much do first year attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 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.

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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?

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First Year Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Attorney job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,330 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

First Year Associate (2026 Graduate) - Chicago

Segal McCambridge

Chicago, IL

$100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Segal McCambridge, a national litigation firm, is accepting resumes for First-Year Associate Attorneys to join our Chicago 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 initially focus on toxic tort litigation and some general liability 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 toxic tort and general liability 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 Illinois
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 Chicago office gain immediate exposure to toxic tort and general liability 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 - $100,000 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.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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