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Legal Associate Jobs in Champaign, IL (NOW HIRING)

TJX Companies

Merchandise Associate

Champaign, IL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

TJ Maxx

Merchandise Associate

Champaign, IL

$15 - $15.50/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

TJX Companies

Merchandise Associate

Champaign, IL

$15 - $15.50/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

Tjx

Merchandise Associate

Champaign, IL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

TJ Maxx

Merchandise Associate

Champaign, IL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

EAP; smoking cessation; bereavement; 401(k) Associate contributions; child care & cell phone discounts; pet & legal insurance; credit union; referral bonuses. Those who meet service or hours ...

Pawn King

Retail Sales Associate - 3767

Urbana, IL

$15 - $18/hr

Our retail sales associates can earn UP TO 8% on transactions, which could average an additional $3 ... Answers incoming calls per company standards Effectively communicates to customers the legal ...

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All JobsLegal Associate JobsLegal Associate Jobs in Champaign, IL

Legal Associate information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$8

$29

$60

How much do legal associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for legal associate in Champaign, IL is $29.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $33.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a legal associate?

Legal Associates are early-career lawyers who support more senior attorneys in a law firm or legal department. They conduct legal research, draft documents, assist with case preparation, and may represent clients under supervision. Legal Associates are typically recent law school graduates who have passed the bar exam, and their role is designed to provide hands-on experience while allowing them to develop their legal skills. Over time, Legal Associates may work toward becoming partners or taking on more senior legal positions within their organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a legal associate?

To thrive as a Legal Associate, you need a law degree (JD or equivalent), strong research and analytical skills, and attention to detail. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis, document management systems, and proficiency in drafting legal documents are essential. Excellent written and verbal communication, time management, and the ability to work collaboratively set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure effective legal analysis, high-quality client service, and successful case outcomes in a demanding legal environment.

What are some typical challenges legal associates face during their first year at a law firm?

Legal Associates often encounter challenges such as managing a high volume of work under tight deadlines, adapting to the expectations of different partners, and learning to balance administrative tasks with substantive legal research and drafting. Navigating firm culture and building relationships with senior attorneys and clients can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and help associates develop strong time management, communication, and legal analysis skills crucial for career growth.

What is the difference between Legal Associate vs Paralegal?

AspectLegal AssociateParalegal
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission often preferredAssociate's degree or paralegal certification
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, legal departments, courts, corporate offices
Job ResponsibilitiesLegal research, drafting documents, client interaction, assisting attorneysLegal research, document preparation, case organization, support tasks

Legal Associates typically hold a JD and are licensed to practice law, performing more advanced legal tasks. Paralegals assist attorneys with research and administrative duties but do not require a law degree or license. Both roles work in similar environments, but Legal Associates have a broader scope of responsibilities and legal authority.

Are legal associates in demand?

Legal associates are in demand due to ongoing legal needs across various industries, especially in corporate, healthcare, and technology sectors. The role often requires strong research, writing, and analytical skills, and employment prospects are expected to grow as legal services remain essential for businesses and individuals.
More about Legal Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Legal jobs in Champaign, IL?

The most popular types of Legal jobs in Champaign, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Legal Associate jobs in Champaign, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Legal Associate jobs in Champaign, IL are:

What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Legal Associate jobs?

Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Legal Associate job openings:

Legal Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Legal Associate job openings in Champaign, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,416 per year, or $29 per hour.

Administrative Legal Secretary

Champaign County

Urbana, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Champaign County (Illinois) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 856 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Type:
Champaign County/Administrative Legal Secretary (State`s Attorney)
Date Posted:
9/2/2026
Location:
101 E. Main Street (Courthouse)
Date Available:
As soon as possible
Closing Date:
Until Filled
Job Title: Administrative Legal Secretary (Full-Time, Non-Exempt)
Department: State's Attorney's Office
Reports To: Administrator, Attorney, Counselor, or Investigator
SUMMARY
The Champaign County State's Attorney's Office is seeking applicants for an Administrative Legal Secretary position working with our Assistant State's Attorneys and performs specialized and confidential secretarial duties which often require independent judgement; handles clerical and administrative functions. Requires strong organizational ability, initiative, sound judgement, and discretion in communicating with a wide variety of individuals and entities and in obtaining, utilizing, creating, distributing, and storing documents and electronic evidence in support of prosecutors' work on confidential and sensitive matters.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Include but not limited to the following as other duties may be assigned.
  • Serves as backup secretary for other assigned legal secretaries.
  • Handles confidential matters daily relating to all divisions of the State's Attorney's Office.
  • Schedules hearings, meetings, and court appearances; communicates with court staff, attorneys, witnesses, victims, social service agencies, law enforcement personnel and other outside entities; performs receptionist duties answering phones and assisting office visitors. Receives and responds to calls, emails, and other communications; answers inquiries from County staff, law enforcement, and the general public, exercising patience and professionalism with individuals navigating sensitive or emotional matters.
  • Types, prepares, and files (including through electronic filing/e-filing systems) correspondence, warrants, summons, subpoenas, writs, orders, indictments, petitions, and other legal documents
  • Obtains, utilizes, and manages case information through State and County electronic databases and case management systems, including entering, updating, and retrieving case records and electronic evidence. Maintains a variety of physical and electronic files, records, and evidence, ensuring accurate organization, proper handling, and secure storage; may be responsible for maintaining LEADS certification and running criminal history checks. Completes forms and prepares reports, such as disposition reports and statistical reports, requiring attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Provides administrative and organizational support to prosecutors on a variety of confidential and sensitive matters, prioritizing and coordinating multiple time-sensitive tasks with minimal direction.
  • May attend meetings, including virtual meetings, as a representative of the department; may train secretarial/clerical staff and interns, exercising leadership and sound judgement.

QUALIFICATIONS
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • (Required) High school diploma
  • Prior office experience with secretarial training required
  • (Preferred) Minimum of 3 years legal, social service, or criminal justice experience.
  • (Preferred) Associate degree or higher with special consideration given for specific coursework in secretarial skills, criminal justice, and/or social work.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Proficient computer skills include but not limited to Microsoft Office, particularly Microsoft Word.
  • Strong and effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of modern office practices and principles of modern record keeping
  • Ability to set up and maintain physical and electronic filing systems
  • Knowledge of legal phrases and terminology preferred
  • Excellent organizational and time management skills.
  • Professional phone etiquette.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion.

LANGUAGE SKILLS
  • Ability to read, analyze, and understand legal documents and written communications
  • Ability to write clear correspondence, including email
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
  • General math skills required

REASONING ABILITY
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, electronic, or diagram form
  • Ability to deal with problems involving several variables.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize work and to coordinate several activities simultaneously.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position requires the ability to perform essential secretarial functions in a typical office environment. The employee must be able to sit for extended periods while working at a computer, with occasional standing and walking within the office. Tasks involve typing, filing, and handling office equipment such as phones, printers, and copiers. The role may require occasional lifting of items up to 15 20 pounds (such as boxes of paper or files) and reaching to retrieve or store materials on shelves. Clear communication via phone and in person is necessary, requiring the ability to hear and speak effectively. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.
COMPENSATION
  • Pay Range: $21.52 - $29.52
  • The County offers a competitive benefits package, which is outlined on the Champaign County Employment page, including membership in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), optional 457 deferred compensation plans, and a comprehensive health insurance plan.

HOW TO APPLY
  • Apply online at the Champaign County Jobs page or submit your resume to Jessica Pickett via email.

Applicants should note this is a Bargaining Unit position under the Agreement set by the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Union contract.
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