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First Year Law Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Capital University

Professor of Legal Writing

Columbus, OH · On-site

$70K - $74K/yr

The legal research and writing course for first-year law students is a two semester, four-credit course that introduces students to the fundamentals of legal reasoning, legal research, legal writing ...

Capital University

Professor of Legal Writing

Columbus, OH · On-site

$70K - $74K/yr

The legal research and writing course for first-year law students is a two semester, four-credit course that introduces students to the fundamentals of legal reasoning, legal research, legal writing ...

Heyl Royster

Summer Associate Program 2027

Peoria, IL

$1.5K/wk

The Heyl Royster Summer Associate Program 2027 is intended primarily for second-year law students, although applications from first-year students are accepted. This program serves as our primary ...

Heyl Royster

Summer Associate Program 2027

Peoria, IL · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The Heyl Royster Summer Associate Program 2027 is intended primarily for second-year law students, although applications from first-year students are accepted. This program serves as our primary ...

Heyl Royster

Summer Associate Program 2027

Peoria, IL · On-site

$1.5K/wk

The Heyl Royster Summer Associate Program 2027 is intended primarily for second-year law students, although applications from first-year students are accepted. This program serves as our primary ...

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First Year Law Associate information

See salary details

$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

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

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for first year law associate in the United States is $108,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $130,000.00 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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First Year Law Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Year Law Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,160 per year, or $52 per hour.
Employment Law Associate Attorney

Employment Law Associate Attorney

W3Global Inc.

El Segundo, CA

$120K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Employment Law Associate Attorney With 2-7 Years of Experience

El Segundo, CA,

Job Description:

Client, a plaintiff-side employment law firm located in El Segundo, is looking for a full-time associate attorney with 2-7 years of experience to join our team. Our litigation practice consists of approximately 90% wage and hour class actions, and 10% individual employment matters (e.g., FEHA claims).

Qualifications:

Applicants should have strong employment litigation experience, with a wage and hour class action emphasis, and be comfortable litigating in both state and federal courts.

Must be experienced and skillful in client advocacy, handling court appearances, taking and defending depositions, drafting complaints, mediation briefs, and class action settlement agreements.

Able to work independently and provide reliable, high-level support to partners, effectively manage, mediate, and settle cases, engage clients, and offer meaningful ongoing support and mentorship to associates.

We pay competitive salaries, commensurate with experience. We also share the firm's successes with associates in the form of year-end performance bonuses and origination points for all cases brought to the firm. Health insurance, vision, dental and 401(k) are also offered.

This is primarily an in-office position. To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, and a writing sample.

Benefits:

• 401(k)

• Health, vision, and dental insurance

• Life insurance

• Paid time off

Schedule: Monday to Friday

Work Location: El Segundo, CA - position is primarily in person

Client's Benefits Summary

Health

Health insurance is offered for employees through Health Net and Kaiser and includes a wide range of both HMO & PPO plan options.

The law firm covers 50% of the employee-only premium for the Health Net PPO Bronze plan.

This employer contribution is transferable and can be applied to any health plan offered by the firm.

Health insurance enrollment commences on the 1st of the month following 30 days of employment.

Dental

Dental insurance is offered through Humana, and it includes both an HMO and a PPO option.

Client fully sponsors the employee only premium for the HMO plan at no cost to employees.

Employees can elect to upgrade to the High Option PPO plan. The cost varies annually.

Vision

Vision insurance is offered through VSP.

Client fully sponsors the employee-only premium for the vision plan at no cost to employees.

Employees can add their spouses and family members for minimal cost which varies annually.

401K

Client offers a 401 K plan. Participation eligibility is generally three to six months from start of employment.

In addition to any contribution employees choose to make, Client contributes 3% of their salary towards the plan.

Life Insurance

$25,000 life insurance and $25,000 Accidental Death (AD&D) for employee at no cost.

Voluntary life insurance paid for by the employee opting for additional coverage.

Discretionary Bonus

Year end, based on performance. Fully at the discretion of employer.

Annual raises.

Origination Bonus

12.5% of attorneys' fee award if no outside referral; 7.5% if outside referral.

Social Events

Happy hours, events and monthly firm lunches.

Annual holiday event.

W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006

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