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Legal Associate Jobs in Springfield, MA (NOW HIRING)

Legal/Risk Management

Springfield, MA · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

The position handles legal letters of representation, conducts thorough and continuous investigations, documents findings, and prepares files to support settlements and any potential litigation needs ...

Legal/Risk Management

Springfield, MA · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

The position handles legal letters of representation, conducts thorough and continuous investigations, documents findings, and prepares files to support settlements and any potential litigation needs ...

The position handles legal letters of representation, conducts thorough and continuous investigations, documents findings, and prepares files to support settlements and any potential litigation needs ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Glastonbury, CT · Hybrid

$139K - $189K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Glastonbury, CT

$139K - $189K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Glastonbury, CT · Hybrid

$139K - $189K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Glastonbury, CT · Hybrid

$139K - $189K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Glastonbury, CT · On-site

$139K - $189K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

Senior Legal Counsel

Glastonbury, CT

$139K - $189K/yr

The Senior Legal Counsel role offers growth potential opportunities, professional development, an ... business associate agreements and/or data processing agreements. * Work closely with segment ...

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Legal Associate information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$8

$28

$59

How much do legal associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for legal associate in Springfield, MA is $28.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $33.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Legal Associates?

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 is a legal associate?

A legal associate is a junior attorney or lawyer who supports senior lawyers by conducting research, drafting documents, and preparing cases. They typically work in law firms or corporate legal departments and need a law degree and bar admission to practice. The role often involves analyzing legal issues and assisting with client consultations.

What is the lowest position in a law firm?

The lowest position in a law firm is typically a legal assistant or legal secretary, who provides administrative support to attorneys. Entry-level roles often require basic legal knowledge, strong organizational skills, and familiarity with legal software. These positions serve as a foundation for advancing to higher roles such as paralegal or associate.

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 a Legal Associate?

A legal associate is a practicing junior attorney at a law firm who works on cases for clients, conducts legal research, and provides legal advice to clients. Other job duties include developing and implementing litigation strategies, supervising legal assistants and paralegals, and representing clients in court. The qualifications you need for a career as a legal associate include a bachelor’s degree and then a law degree from an accredited law school, a license to practice law through your state’s bar association, at least one year of experience working in a law firm, and excellent communication and collaborative skills.

What can you do with an associate degree in law?

A legal associate degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as legal assistant, paralegal, or legal secretary. These positions involve supporting attorneys, conducting research, and managing case files, often requiring knowledge of legal software and procedures.

Is $900 an hour a lot for a lawyer?

For a legal associate, earning $900 an hour is considered very high and typically reflects senior-level experience, specialized expertise, or work in high-demand areas such as corporate law or litigation. Most legal associates earn significantly less, with hourly rates often ranging from $100 to $300 depending on location and firm size. Such rates are more common for partners or highly specialized attorneys rather than entry-level associates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Legal Associate, and why are they important?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Legal jobs in Springfield, MA? The most popular types of Legal jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What job categories do people searching Legal Associate jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Legal Associate jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Legal Associate jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Legal Associate job openings:
Legal/Risk Management

Legal/Risk Management

Big Y Foods, Inc.

Springfield, MA • On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


Big Y rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 252 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 119 rated grocery stores


Job description

Job Description 

POSITION TITLE: FOOD SAFETY TRAINER - General Liability Adjuster

SUMMARY OF POSITION: This role functions with an expanded authority level, settling claims by evaluating liability and damages, negotiating resolutions with attorneys and customers, and ensuring timely and appropriate outcomes. The position handles legal letters of representation, conducts thorough and continuous investigations, documents findings, and prepares files to support settlements and any potential litigation needs, while also assisting the Manager or Specialist in trial preparation.

Requirements 
  • Connecticut Adjuster's License Required
  • 3-5 years of experience in property, liability, or claims investigation
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
  • Ability to gather and evaluate information from multiple sources
  • Highly organized and able to prioritize tasks
  • Proficient with claims management systems and standard office software
  • Communicate clearly and professionally
  • Exercise independent judgment
  • Maintain integrity and confidentiality
  • Adaptable, proactive, and collaborative
  • Knowledge of safety and regulatory standards
Pay Details 
$70000.00 - 92200.00
Pay Rate Type 
Salaried
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What Big Y employees say

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About Big Y

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Big Y is a major player in the grocery industry, based in Springfield, MA, United States. Since its inception in 1936, Big Y has placed a strong focus on providing quality and value through their impressive range of goods. The company started as a small grocery store and flourished into a network of over 80 supermarkets today. The business prides itself on delivering finely selected produce, fresh seafood, high-grade meats, and an expansive assortment of household items. The fundamental values revolving around quality, exceptional service, and community involvement have been instrumental in shaping the company's identity.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, MA, US