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Research Lawyer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Robert Half

REMOTE: Research Attorney

Ventura, CA · Remote

$65 - $80/hr

The court is seeking an attorney with outstanding research and writing abilities who can deliver polished, analytical work product in a fast-paced environment. What You'll Do * Perform substantive ...

Muskegon County

Research Attorney FT

Muskegon, MI · Hybrid

$63K - $82K/yr

Description of Work The Research Attorney communicates and coordinates with all Muskegon County 14th Circuit and Probate Court Judges to ensure that complex legal matters are researched and promptly ...

Muskegon County, MI

Research Attorney FT

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

The Research Attorney performs legal research, drafts legal memorandum, and writes draft opinions for the Circuit and Probate Court Judges. Required Minimum Entrance Qualifications Juris Doctorate ...

INNOVATIVE LAW GROUP

Research Attorney

Holland, MI · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Research legal issues in complex commercial litigation, business law, real estate, and general civil litigation. Prepare Memos to attorneys with citations to applicable case law. Company Description ...

INNOVATIVE LAW GROUP

Research Attorney

Holland, MI · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Research legal issues in complex commercial litigation, business law, real estate, and general civil litigation. Prepare Memos to attorneys with citations to applicable case law. Company Description ...

Harper Law Firm

Lawyer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

If you have the ability to handle a diverse caseload, have stellar research and writing skills, can ... attorneys • Draft motions and petitions • Report on case pipeline and quarterly KPIs • All ...

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Research Lawyer information

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$47K

$100.6K

$138K

How much do research lawyer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for research lawyer in the United States is $100,626.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Research Lawyer, you need strong legal research, analytical thinking, and writing skills, typically supported by a law degree and bar admission. Familiarity with legal research databases such as Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency in drafting legal memoranda are crucial. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate, thorough legal analysis and support effective decision-making within legal teams.

How to make $500,000 as a lawyer?

Research lawyers can increase their earnings by specializing in high-demand areas such as corporate, intellectual property, or trial law, gaining experience, and building a strong client base. Achieving a high income often involves working at large firms, developing a reputation, and continuously improving legal skills and networking. Some lawyers also supplement income through consulting, writing, or teaching.

What is the difference between Research Lawyer vs Paralegal?

AspectResearch LawyerParalegal
CredentialsJuris Doctor (JD), bar admissionAssociate degree or paralegal certificate
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, corporate legal departments, government agenciesLaw firms, legal departments, courts
ResponsibilitiesLegal research, analysis, advising attorneys, drafting legal documentsLegal research, document preparation, case organization

Research Lawyers and Paralegals both perform legal research and support attorneys, but Research Lawyers typically hold a JD and are licensed to practice law, providing legal advice and analysis. Paralegals assist attorneys with case preparation and document management without practicing law. The main difference lies in their qualifications, responsibilities, and ability to provide legal counsel.

What are research lawyers?

Research lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in conducting in-depth legal research, analyzing statutes, case law, and legal precedents to support other lawyers, law firms, or organizations. They help prepare case strategies, draft legal opinions, and provide guidance on complex legal issues. Their work ensures that legal arguments are well-founded and up-to-date with current laws and regulations. Research lawyers often work behind the scenes, playing a crucial role in the legal decision-making process.

Do lawyers make $500,000 a year?

Research lawyers' salaries vary widely based on experience, location, and specialization. While some senior or highly specialized lawyers at large firms can earn over $500,000 annually, most lawyers earn less, with median salaries typically ranging from $70,000 to $150,000 per year.

What does a research lawyer do?

A research lawyer conducts legal research to analyze laws, regulations, and legal precedents relevant to specific cases or issues. They gather and interpret information to support legal arguments, often using legal databases and tools, and may assist in drafting documents or advising clients and attorneys. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of legal research methods are essential for this role.

What is the 80 20 rule for lawyers?

The 80/20 rule for lawyers suggests that roughly 80% of a lawyer's results come from 20% of their efforts, emphasizing the importance of focusing on high-impact tasks such as client development, case strategy, and legal research. Prioritizing these key activities can improve efficiency and effectiveness in legal practice.

What are some of the typical challenges a Research Lawyer faces when supporting litigation teams?

Research Lawyers often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, the need to interpret complex legal precedents, and the requirement to communicate findings clearly to litigation teams. They must stay updated on recent legal developments, ensuring their research is both current and relevant. Additionally, Research Lawyers frequently collaborate with partners, associates, and paralegals, making strong teamwork and communication skills essential for effectively supporting case strategies.
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Research Lawyer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Lawyer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 47% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 7% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 70% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,626 per year, or $48.4 per hour.
REMOTE: Research Attorney

REMOTE: Research Attorney

Robert Half

Ventura, CA • Remote

$65 - $80/hr

Temporary

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Location: California-based candidates only

Bar Requirement: Active California Bar membership required

Schedule: Full-time

Work Arrangement: Fully remote

Engagement Type: Contract

Term: Expected to run through August, with the possibility of extension

Compensation: $65.00-$80.00/hour, depending on experience


Robert Half Legal is working with a County Superior Court to identify a Research Attorney for a full-time contract opportunity supporting judicial officers in California. This fully remote position offers the chance to contribute to sophisticated legal matters while partnering closely with judges on substantive casework. The court is seeking an attorney with outstanding research and writing abilities who can deliver polished, analytical work product in a fast-paced environment.


What You’ll Do

  • Perform substantive legal research across a variety of civil and procedural issues.
  • Prepare well-written legal memoranda, draft rulings, and other judicial work product.
  • Assist with the drafting of motions that may resolve claims or narrow issues for the court’s consideration.
  • Support the preparation of responses to contested filings and related written analyses.
  • Develop tentative rulings for judicial review.
  • Work directly with judges on complex and high-level matters before the court.


What We’re Looking For

  • Active membership in the California State Bar.
  • Must currently reside in California.
  • Exceptional legal writing, editing, and research skills.
  • Ability to analyze intricate legal issues and communicate conclusions clearly and persuasively.
  • Prior experience in litigation, judicial clerkship, court research attorney work, or comparable substantive writing-intensive practice is highly valued.

Please send your resume directly to Steve[dot]Moss[at]RobertHalf[dotcom] for immediate consideration.

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About Robert Half

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1948, Robert Half pioneered the idea of professional talent solutions to connect opportunities at great companies with highly skilled job seekers. As business needs changed, we evolved to offer specialized talent solutions for finance and accounting, technology, administrative and customer support, creative and marketing, and legal fields. In 2002, we introduced our subsidiary, Protiviti, a global independent risk consulting and internal audit service, to support companies as they faced more strategic business challenges.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Year founded

1948

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