ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Legal Associate Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Morgan & Morgan, P.A.

Legal Assistant

Columbia, SC · On-site

Associates degree in paralegal studies, a paralegal certificate, or a bachelor's degree is ... legal assistant, legal secretary, or paralegal. * Experience in Personal Injury, Workers ...

Morgan & Morgan, P.A.

Legal Assistant

Columbia, SC · On-site

Associates degree in paralegal studies, a paralegal certificate, or a bachelor's degree is ... legal assistant, legal secretary, or paralegal. * Experience in Personal Injury, Workers ...

Burr & Forman

Legal Practice Assistant

Columbia, SC · On-site

This role involves performing complex administrative tasks that require knowledge of legal ... Associate's degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience * Knowledge of ...

Burr & Forman

Legal Practice Assistant

Columbia, SC · On-site

This role involves performing complex administrative tasks that require knowledge of legal ... Associate's degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience * Knowledge of ...

KMRG LLC

Part-Time Legal Assistant

Columbia, SC · On-site

$31.58/hr

ROLE We are seeking an experienced Legal Assistant to support the United States Attorney's Office ... Associate's degree or 2 years of continued higher education * Bachelor's degree preferred LOCATION

Maynard Nexsen

Legal Practice Assistant

Columbia, SC · On-site

Associate's degree preferred * Prior legal experience required. Work Environment and Physical Demands * Ability to work extended hours when necessary. * In office position * Normal office environment ...

Maynard Nexsen PC

Legal Practice Assistant

Columbia, SC · On-site

Associate's degree preferred * Prior legal experience required. Work Environment and Physical Demands * Ability to work extended hours when necessary. * In office position * Normal office environment ...

Gist Law Firm

Associate Attorney

Columbia, SC · On-site

As an Associate Attorney, you will provide legal counsel and representation to clients in various legal issues, with a specific focus on employment law. General Accountabilities: Attorneys will ...

Gist Law Firm

Associate Attorney

Columbia, SC · On-site

As an Associate Attorney, you will provide legal counsel and representation to clients in various legal issues, with a specific focus on employment law. General Accountabilities: Attorneys will ...

Gist Law Firm

Associate Attorney

Columbia, SC · On-site

As an Associate Attorney, you will provide legal counsel and representation to clients in various legal issues, with a specific focus on employment law. General Accountabilities: Attorneys will ...

Isotalent

Be Seen First

Senior Associate Attorney or Associate Attorney

Columbia, SC · On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

Associate Attorney or Sr. Associate Attorney - Civil Defense Litigation Location: Columbia, South ... If that sounds like you, this could be the perfect next step in your legal career. Keep scrolling ...

New

Collins & Lacy

Associate Attorney

Columbia, SC · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Associate Attorney - Civil Defense Litigation Columbia, South Carolina | Full-Time, Monday-Friday ... RequirementsDraft pleadings, motions, discovery requests, and responsesProvide effective legal ...

Collins & Lacy

Senior Associate Attorney

Columbia, SC · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Senior Associate Attorney - Civil Defense Litigation Columbia, South Carolina | Full-Time, Monday ... legal counsel in the defense of civil disputes in South CarolinaRepresent clients in state and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLegal Associate JobsLegal Associate Jobs in Columbia, SC

Legal Associate information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$7

$26

$55

How much do legal associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for legal associate in Columbia, SC is $26.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $31.25 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.

Are legal associates in demand?

Legal associates are in demand due to ongoing legal needs across various industries, including corporate, criminal, and civil law. The role often requires strong research, writing, and analytical skills, and employment prospects are generally favorable for those with a law degree and relevant experience.

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 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 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.

More about Legal Associate jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Legal jobs in Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Legal jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Legal Associate jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Legal Associate jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Legal Associate jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Legal Associate jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Legal Associate jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Legal Associate job openings:

Legal Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Legal Associate job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,811 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Legal Assistant

Morgan & Morgan, P.A.

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Morgan & Morgan rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 34 rated law firms

Job description

Summary

We are seeking a qualifiedLegal Assistant to join our team. As a Legal Assistant, you will be responsible for managing the law firm's day-to-day operations, including carrying out administrative services and supporting the legal team. This position's ideal candidate has a strong work ethic, exceptional problem-solving skills, and comfortable working in a fast-paced dynamic workplace.

Responsibilities

  • Perform administrative duties (scheduling calendar hearings and deadlines, organize case files, manage logistics).
  • Maintain pleadings and discovery indexes.
  • Organize exhibits, documents, evidence, briefs, and appendices.
  • Implement and improve upon administrative processes for more efficient workflow.
  • Collect, examine, and organize evidence and other legal documents for attorney review and case preparation.
  • Draft and proofread correspondence and legal documents, such as pleadings and contracts.
  • Research regulations, laws, and legal articles to assist with the preparation of reports, case files, and legal advice.
  • Manage client billing by preparing, finalizing, and sending out bills, as well as resolving billing issues in cooperation with the billing attorney.
  • Communicate with clients and witnesses to schedule meetings, interviews, and depositions.
  • Manage, organize, and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing systems.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the business.
     

Qualification

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required.
  • Associates degree in paralegal studies, a paralegal certificate, or a bachelor's degree is preferred.
  • At least 1 year of experience as an administrative assistant (preferably in a law firm or in a corporate legal department), legal assistant, legal secretary, or paralegal.
  • Experience in Personal Injury, Workers Compensation, Premises Liability, or other injury related practice areas. (preferred)
  • Must possess the ability to multi-task, prioritize, handle a fast-paced environment, and manage workload with a great attitude and minimal supervision.
  • Great written and communication skills, be proficient in calendar depositions, mediation, and hearings.
  • Applicable knowledge of motions, discovery, evidence, litigation documentation, court rules, and procedures, practices, etc.
  • Highly organized with the ability to juggle multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong writing and communication skills along with attention to detail.
  • Extensive computer and database expertise, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and type no less than 35 wpm.
  • This role is on-site, which gives you the chance to be fully immersed in the work and gain direct experience alongside the team. We've found that being in the office helps new team members get up to speed quickly and feel more connected.

#LI-EM1

What Morgan & Morgan employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply