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First Year Law Associate Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Family Law Associate Attorney

Austin, TX · Remote

$125K - $185K/yr

Salary: $125,000 - $185,000 per year A bit about us: ----- Based in Texas, with 4 offices across ... Our firm prides itself on a client-first, team-based approach--when you work with one attorney, you ...

Associate Attorney

Austin, TX · On-site

$95K - $151K/yr

... Associate Attorney  to join our  Austin office. Unlike other law firms,  Modern Family ... Law  offers you the following opportunities: * Remote First Setting with Brick & Mortar Space ...

Associate Attorney

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$95K - $151K/yr

... Associate Attorney  to join our  San Antonio  office. Unlike other law firms,  Modern ... Law  offers you the following opportunities: * Remote First Setting with Brick & Mortar Space ...

Associate Attorney

Dallas, TX · On-site

$95K - $151K/yr

... Associate Attorney  to join our  Dallas  office. Unlike other law firms,  Modern Family ... Law  offers you the following opportunities: * Remote First Setting with Brick & Mortar Space ...

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Showing results 1-20

First Year Law Associate information

See Texas salary details

$42.9K

$100.8K

$160.7K

How much do first year law associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year law associate in Texas is $100,768.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $121,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do 1st year big law associates make?

First-year law associates at large law firms typically earn starting salaries ranging from $190,000 to $215,000 annually, depending on the firm and location. These salaries are often complemented by bonuses and benefits, and associates are usually expected to work long hours and develop strong legal research and writing skills.

What are some common challenges faced by first year law associates, and how can they overcome them?

First year law associates often face challenges like managing heavy workloads, meeting tight deadlines, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of a law firm. Balancing multiple assignments from different partners and learning the firm's expectations can feel overwhelming at first. To overcome these challenges, it's crucial to communicate proactively with supervisors, seek feedback, and prioritize tasks effectively. Building strong organizational habits and taking advantage of mentorship opportunities can also help associates adjust and thrive in their new roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Year Law Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Year Law Associate, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, a state bar license, and strong legal research, writing, and analytical skills. Familiarity with legal research platforms like Westlaw or LexisNexis, document management systems, and citation tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, time management, and attention to detail help associates work effectively with supervising attorneys and clients. These skills and qualities are essential for producing high-quality work, meeting deadlines, and building a strong foundation for a successful legal career.

Can I work during my first year of law school?

First Year Law Associates typically focus on completing their legal education and may have limited opportunities to work during their first year of law school. However, some students work part-time in legal clinics, internships, or research assistant positions that accommodate their academic schedule and meet licensing or certification requirements. It is important to balance work with study commitments to succeed in law school and meet licensing standards upon graduation.

What jobs can I get with an associate's degree in law?

An associate's degree in law can qualify individuals for roles such as legal assistant, paralegal, or legal secretary, which involve supporting attorneys with research, document preparation, and case management. These positions typically require strong organizational skills and familiarity with legal software but do not require a law license or extensive legal training.

What do first year associates at law firms do?

First year law associates at law firms typically conduct legal research, draft documents, review case files, and assist with trial preparation under supervision. They often handle routine tasks to develop their legal skills and gain experience in various practice areas.

What is a First Year Law Associate?

A First Year Law Associate is an entry-level attorney who has recently graduated from law school and passed the bar exam. They typically work at law firms, assisting senior attorneys with legal research, drafting documents, attending meetings, and supporting case preparation. First Year Associates are often assigned to a specific practice area, such as litigation or corporate law, and spend their first year learning firm procedures and developing practical legal skills. This role is foundational for building a legal career, offering mentorship and hands-on experience.
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What cities in Texas are hiring for First Year Law Associate jobs? Cities in Texas with the most First Year Law Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various First Year Law Associate job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,768 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Goranson Bain Ausley is seeking an Associate Attorney to join our Granbury office!

We are the largest law firm in Texas exclusively practicing family law and are recognized as one of the most respected family law firms in the state. Our team members, which include 58 attorneys across our locations in Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Granbury, Midland, Plano, and San Antonio, are some of the most passionate and talented individuals in family law.

Goranson Bain Ausley has been repeatedly named a Top Workplace by the Dallas Morning News and recognized as a Best Place to Work by the Dallas Business Journal and Austin Business Journal, underscoring GBA's commitment to our engaging firm culture that places people first.

The Associate Attorney will work closely with our Granbury team to support the firm's clients in a manner that is consistent with our core values and vision. The right candidate will be energetic, creative, and diligent, with at least 4+ years of Texas family law experience. The position includes significant client contact, and applicants should already be comfortable managing their own docket.

GBA offers a comprehensive, formal mentorship program which provides one-on-one intentional guidance regarding case management, practice management, and business development. Further, GBA offers a competitive compensation package including a quarterly bonus structure, medical/dental/vision coverage, 401k contributions, and holidays including a full week off from December 25th through January 1st.

Position requirements:

  • Licensed in Texas with 4+ years of Texas family law experience
  • Confidence in the courtroom
  • Experience in negotiation and mediation
  • Solid understanding of the Texas Family Code and the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure
  • Solution-oriented common sense
  • Exceptional verbal and written communications skills with superior attention to detail
  • Excellent prioritization, problem solving, and time management skills
  • Ability to learn and utilize new technology to meet the changing demands of the legal marketplace
  • Creativity, flexibility, and adaptability in a fast-paced work environment

Goranson Bain Ausley, PLLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.