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Research Attorney Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jobot

Briefing and Research Attorney

Houston, TX · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Briefing and Research Attorney - Plaintiff experience required This Jobot Job is hosted by: Martyn ... Salary: $90,000 - $110,000 per year A bit about us: ----- Over the years our client has gone from ...

System Soft Technologies

Litigation Attorney

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$140K/yr

Litigation Attorney * Salary Range: Around $140,000 * Location: Atlanta, GA * Work Model: Onsite ... Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, motions, and other legal documents. * Participate in court ...

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Research Attorney Salary information

What is the typical salary for a research attorney?

The salary for a research attorney can vary depending on factors such as geographic location, level of experience, the type of employer (private firm, government, or corporate), and the complexity of legal work involved. On average, research attorneys in the United States earn between $60,000 and $120,000 per year. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, while more experienced research attorneys or those working in major metropolitan areas or large law firms can earn higher salaries. Additional benefits and bonuses may also impact total compensation.

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

To thrive as a Research Attorney, you need a strong legal research background, analytical thinking, and thorough knowledge of statutes and case law, typically supported by a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and bar admission. Proficiency in legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and familiarity with court filing systems are essential. Excellent written communication, attention to detail, and the ability to manage time effectively set top performers apart. These skills ensure the production of accurate, well-supported legal memoranda, aiding judges or attorneys in making sound legal decisions.

What are the typical responsibilities of a research attorney and how do they collaborate with litigation teams?

Research attorneys primarily assist judges or senior attorneys by conducting in-depth legal research, analyzing statutes and case law, and drafting legal opinions or memoranda. They often work closely with litigation teams to provide valuable insights on legal precedents and help develop case strategies. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings to discuss findings and review documents, ensuring that the legal arguments presented are well-supported and thoroughly researched. This behind-the-scenes role is critical to the success of complex cases and offers opportunities to learn from experienced practitioners.

What is the difference between Research Attorney Salary vs Paralegal Salary?

AspectResearch Attorney SalaryParalegal Salary
Required CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admission often preferredAssociate's degree or paralegal certificate
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies
Industry UsageLegal research, case analysis, legal strategyLegal support, document preparation, case organization
Salary RangeTypically higher, reflecting advanced legal trainingLower, reflecting support role

Research attorneys generally earn higher salaries than paralegals due to their advanced legal education and responsibilities. While both roles work in similar environments and industries, research attorneys focus on legal research and analysis, whereas paralegals handle support tasks. This difference in duties and qualifications results in a notable salary gap.

Is legal research a good career?

Legal research is a core component of many legal careers, involving analyzing laws, regulations, and case law to support legal decisions. It requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis. The career can be stable and rewarding for those interested in law and research, often leading to roles such as research attorneys or legal analysts.
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What states have the most Research Attorney Salary jobs?

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Research Attorney Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Attorney Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Appellate Court Senior Research Attorney

Lesbian and Gay Bar Association of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

$79 - $108/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

APPELLATE COURT SENIOR RESEARCH ATTORNEY
FIRST DISTRICT APPELLATE COURT

Chicago, IL 60601

Applicants may be required to submit additional materials and/or complete job-specific tests for the position.

Position: Appellate Court Senior Research Attorney

Division: First District, Illinois Appellate Court – Legal Research Division

Salary: $93,681

Benefits
  • pension
  • medical
  • dental
  • vision
  • life insurance
  • deferred compensation options
  • vacation
  • sick
  • personal leave

Reporting Relationship: Legal Research Director

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

The appellate court senior research attorney performs professional legal work in reviewing and conducting legal research, writing, and other professional legal services. Work is performed with considerable independence under the supervision of the appellate court legal research director and is reviewed through conferences and reports.

FUNCTIONS INCLUDE
  • Assists the legal research director in reviewing the work of a moderate-to-large staff of research attorneys.
  • Reviews legal analysis by research attorneys, prior to submission to the court, for accuracy, clarity, and conformity to established procedures and rules.
  • Advises research attorneys on research methodology, court rules, and points of law.
  • Researches law regarding issues addressed by parties or the court.
  • Reads and examines briefs and records; determines relevant cases to be read; verifies the jurisdiction of the court.
  • Reads petitions for rehearing on assigned cases as needed, and researches or redrafts work product as requested by the authoring justice and panel.
  • Confers with justices, law clerks, and research division staff on assignments and corresponding analysis.
  • Studies current legal publications, recent opinions of the Illinois Supreme and Appellate Courts, and other relevant state and federal cases; interprets new statutes according to legislative intent and reviews recent legislation.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Candidate must be a graduate of a law school accredited by the American Bar Association and have a minimum of 5 years’ legal experience. Candidate must be licensed in Illinois and an attorney in good standing. Criminal law experience is preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires the ability to sit for extended periods of time. This is a professional office working environment requiring telephone and computer usage and the ability to process written and electronic documents.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
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