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Law Firm Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

At least 3 to 5 years post-qualification experience, ideally working in both a large law firm and corporate in-house setting in a BU/commercial role.Food law knowledge is a plus, but not required.

Expand firm visibility and opportunities by representing the firm at industry events and networking ... law. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to age, race, color, sex ...

... Firm, Fun leadership approach, and leading by example Assist with managing a profit and loss ... As required by applicable law, SONIC Drive-In franchise organizations will make reasonable ...

We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design ... An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use ...

Administrative Assistant

Decatur, IL

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Where permissible under applicable state and local law, applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test and background check after receiving a conditional offer of employment. #appcast ...

Administrative Assistant

Decatur, IL

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Where permissible under applicable state and local law, applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test and background check after receiving a conditional offer of employment. #appcast

Administrative Assistant

Decatur, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

Where permissible under applicable state and local law, applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test and background check after receiving a conditional offer of employment. #appcast

Law Firm information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$20.4K

$53.8K

$87.3K

How much do law firm jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for law firm in Decatur, IL is $53,755.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,800.00 and $60,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a law firm, and why are they important?

To thrive in a law firm, you need a strong background in legal research, analytical reasoning, and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree with bar admission. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis, case management software, and document management systems is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively under pressure are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure effective client representation, accurate legal work, and the ability to excel in a competitive, fast-paced legal environment.

Is $900 an hour a lot for a lawyer?

For a lawyer, an hourly rate of $900 is considered very high and typically applies to highly specialized or experienced attorneys, such as top litigators or corporate lawyers. Most lawyers charge between $150 and $400 per hour, depending on their experience, location, and practice area. Such rates are usually associated with complex cases or high-stakes legal work.

What is the difference between Law Firm vs Paralegal?

AspectLaw FirmParalegal
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), Bar AdmissionAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Paralegal Studies
Work EnvironmentLegal offices, courts, corporate legal departmentsLaw firms, legal departments, courts
Job RoleProvides legal advice, represents clients, manages casesSupports lawyers, prepares legal documents, conducts research
Industry UsagePrimary legal service providerSupport role within legal teams

Law firms are legal organizations where licensed attorneys provide legal services and representation. Paralegals assist lawyers by preparing documents and conducting research but are not licensed to practice law. While both work within the legal industry, law firms employ licensed attorneys, whereas paralegals support legal teams without practicing law independently.

What kind of work do law firms do?

Law firms provide legal services such as advising clients, drafting legal documents, representing clients in court, and handling negotiations. They employ lawyers, paralegals, and support staff to handle various areas like corporate, criminal, family, or civil law, often requiring strong research and communication skills.

What is a law firm?

A law firm is a business entity formed by one or more lawyers to practice law together. Law firms offer legal services to individuals, businesses, and organizations, providing advice, representation, and assistance in various legal matters such as contracts, litigation, and regulatory issues. The size and focus of law firms can vary widely, ranging from small boutique practices to large international firms with hundreds of attorneys. Law firms may specialize in specific areas of law, such as corporate, family, criminal, or intellectual property law. Hiring a law firm allows clients to access legal expertise and resources to resolve their legal issues effectively.

What are some common challenges faced when starting a career at a law firm, and how can new hires overcome them?

New hires at law firms often face challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced environment, managing multiple deadlines, and learning to use firm-specific legal research tools. Balancing billable hour requirements with professional development can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to seek mentorship from senior associates, proactively communicate with team members, and utilize any training resources provided by the firm. Building strong organizational skills and staying open to feedback will also support your success as you grow within the firm.

Can I work at a law firm without being a lawyer?

Yes, law firms employ a variety of non-lawyer staff such as paralegals, legal assistants, administrative personnel, and clerks. These roles support legal services but do not require a law degree or license to practice law.

What are all the positions in a law firm?

Law firms typically have a range of positions including partners, associates, paralegals, legal assistants, clerks, and administrative staff. Senior attorneys and partners usually oversee firm operations, while junior lawyers and support staff handle casework and client interactions. Some firms also employ specialized roles such as legal secretaries, marketing professionals, and IT support staff.

What Are Different Types of Jobs in a Law Firm?

Your job opportunities at a law firm include lawyer or attorney, legal assistant or paralegal, law clerk, and legal secretary. A firm may also have employees who perform administrative and support duties, such as a bookkeeper or legal writer. The job responsibilities of lawyer involve working on cases and appearing in court, while paralegals and assistants support their efforts with research and managing records. As a paralegal or legal secretary, you may also work with clients by collecting information, making sure they understand the cases, and providing the required documents and information.

What job categories do people searching Law Firm jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Law Firm jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Law Firm jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Law Firm job openings:
Senior Counsel, Commercial - Decatur, IL

Senior Counsel, Commercial - Decatur, IL

Archer Daniels Midland

Decatur, IL • On-site

$128K - $238K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


ADM rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

91st of 355 rated logistics


Job description


Senior Counsel, Commercial - Decatur, IL
The Senior Counsel, Commercial, position reports to the Associate General Counsel, Carbohydrate Solutions and supports members of the Carbohydrate Solutions Business Unit team by providing legal counsel on a range of topics related to commercial and contract matters, corporate matters, distribution arrangements, joint ventures, pre-litigation matters, and day-to-day antitrust issues and also provides business-unit specific guidance for matters being primarily handled by subject-matter attorneys.
Senior Counsel's Key Goals
Provide timely and accurate legal advice in advancement of the Carbohydrate Solutions Business and ADM's business goals, while protecting ADM's legal interests, and become part of the business team by developing and maintaining strong relationships with Carbohydrate Solutions leaders.
Responsibilities
  • Provide legal counsel to all levels of Carbohydrate Solutions commercial team, including senior executives and their direct reports maximizing the use of internal legal resources and minimizing outside legal spend.
  • Draft, interpret, and negotiate commercial agreements for various Carbohydrate Solutions businesses including, but not limited to agriculture, transportation (truck, rail, and vessel), refined oils, and biodiesel.
  • Provide guidance on commercial, antitrust, and pre-litigation matters relating to the day-to-day aspects of the Ag Services business including everything from strategy for discussions with customers and producers, liens, reviewing marketing materials, and general compliance with applicable laws. General guidance may cover topics such as credit, liens, tariffs, and trade compliance.
  • Develop and deliver legal training to commercial teams regarding compliance with laws and company policy.
  • Manage outside counsel as required on specific subject matters.
  • Review, revise and/or approve all proposed changes for confidentiality agreements drafted by legal assistant and assist as necessary with customer discussions regarding such changes in order to execute NDAs.
  • Provide advice and counsel regarding ADM policies and procedures.
  • Work with specialist ADM attorneys as required on Carbohydrate Solutions matters and policies.
  • Work with ADM litigation attorneys, prepare for and provide legal representation to ADM in civil litigation and other contested matters involving business unit.
Qualifications:
  • Must have a J.D. degree and admitted to practice law in a state bar in the United States.
  • At least 3 to 5 years post-qualification experience, ideally working in both a large law firm and corporate in-house setting in a BU/commercial role.
  • Food law knowledge is a plus, but not required.
Skills:
  • Excellent contract drafting, review and negotiation skills.
  • Commercial and practical approach to legal advice is critical.
  • Oral and written communication skills and an ability to adapt communications style depending on with whom they are dealing.
  • Must be responsive to business needs and act with timeliness and sense of urgency.
  • Must be a quick-thinker and be comfortable answering questions "on the spot."
  • Experience of managing supply chain concerns (everything from formation of contracts to quality/recall issues).
  • Good abilities in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Working knowledge of antitrust principles, and applicable trade association rules, would be an advantage.
Other required or desirable attributes:
  • Demonstrated ability to build relationships with the BU team and the legal team and positively influence outcomes.
  • In-depth understanding of ADM's business, or the willingness and ability gain that knowledge quickly.
  • Experience in transportation, food, agriculture, and/or manufacturing sectors is preferred.
  • Ability to provide business-oriented solutions to complex legal problems.
  • Highly motivated, proactive, self-disciplined and team-oriented.
  • Committed to ADM values: integrity, respect, excellence, resourcefulness, teamwork, and responsibility.
  • Work independently with general supervision and direction from the Chief Counsel Carbohydrate Solutions in furtherance of department and business goals.
  • Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced and dynamic environment while handling multiple competing tasks simultaneously to satisfactory closure.
  • Ability to work closely with business team to develop solutions to legal issues that are both in keeping with ADM policies and values, and relevant laws and regulations, and serve to advance business needs.
  • Disposition to maintain an "open door" policy, to encourage all levels of the ADM business team to raise potential issues.
  • Commitment to cooperate and collaborate with other members of the ADM law department within the department matrix structure.
  • Ability to delegate and manage resources effectively.
  • Effective planning and organizing skills to prioritize key areas of responsibility, tasks and projects in a high pressure environment.
  • Abide by and demonstrate the Company's Mission, Vision, and Values through both behavior and job performance on a day-to-day basis.

Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.
ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.
REF:107850BR
About ADM
At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.
#IncludingYou
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.
We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law
Benefits and Perks
Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including:
  • Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable).
  • Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection.
  • Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares).
Additional benefits include:
  • Paid time off including paid holidays.
  • Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave.
  • Tuition assistance.
  • Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs.
*Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter.
Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.
If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
The pay range for this position is expected to be between:

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