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First Year Law Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Distro

Family Law Associate Attorney

Doylestown, PA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Family Law Attorney at the Associate Level ... 000 a year We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process ...

Modern Family Law

Associate Attorney

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$130K - $172K/yr

... Associate Attorney  to join our  Fort Collins, CO  office. Unlike ... other law firms, Modern Family Law offers you the following opportunities: * Remote First ...

Modern Family Law

Associate Attorney

Seattle, WA · On-site

$130K - $199K/yr

... Associate Attorney to join our Seattle, WA office ... Unlike other law firms, Modern Family Law offers you the following opportunities: * Remote First ...

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First Year Law Associate information

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$46K

$108.2K

$172.5K

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

As of Jul 10, 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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What cities are hiring for First Year Law Associate jobs? Cities with the most First Year Law Associate job openings:
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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.
Summer Associate Program 2027

Summer Associate Program 2027

Heyl Royster

Peoria, IL • On-site

$1.5K/wk

Full-time, Temporary

PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

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 recruiting tool for new attorneys. The goal is for each Summer Associate to have a positive experience and receive an offer for full-time employment with our firm after they pass the bar.

We anticipate an employment start date of Wednesday, June 2, 2027 and an end date of Friday, July 30, 2027. Our Summer Associates gain legal experience and develop skills across multiple practice areas within the firm. Rather than assigning the participants to specific practice areas, we assign the Summer Associates to work in as many different practice groups as possible. Just as we do in our regular practice, we ensure each Summer Associate has a chance to work with the attorneys in the office where they may be for the summer but also with the skilled attorneys across our firm.

We provide our Summer Associates with actual work on active files. While there are limits on what our Summer Associates can do without a license, we make sure that each has the opportunity to duplicate the real practice of law with supervision and mentorship from licensed attorneys. As a result, most of our Summer Associates return to law school with an enlightened understanding of what is taught in the classroom.

We want each of the participants to get to know us, and we want to get to know them. We work hard but also have a chance for a great deal of social interaction. Our attorneys look forward to the summer months when our Summer Associates are on site, and we are engaged in social and networking opportunities, both within the individual offices and firmwide.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary for a second-year Summer Associate with our firm is $1,500. per week. First year Summer Associates salary is $1,300. per week.

The Firm provides Summer Associates:

  • Paid vacation/holiday
  • Dress for your day
  • Employee assistance benefits

If this sounds like the opportunity you've been waiting for, apply today!

ARE YOU READY TO JOIN OUR LEGAL TEAM?

We understand your time is valuable, and that is why we have a quick and easy application process. If you feel that you would be right for this position at our law firm, please fill out our 3-minute, mobile-friendly application so that we can review your information. We look forward to meeting you!

Heyl Royster is an equal opportunity employer.

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.


Must be able to pass a background check. Any job offer will be based on results of background check.